Formula 1 CEO Advocates for Increased Controversy over Technical Regulations

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has expressed a desire to see more debate surrounding the technical regulations in the championship, labeling certain instances as “spice.” In his previous roles at Ferrari, including commercial department, sporting director, and team principal, Domenicali was involved in numerous technical controversies throughout the 2000s and 2010s.

Past Technical Controversies in Formula 1

In an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com, Domenicali referenced Ferrari‘s own involvement in the double-disqualification at the 1999 Malaysian Grand Prix. The team’s bargeboards were found to be illegal, potentially handing Mika Hakkinen the drivers’ title. However, a successful appeal by led to the disqualification being revoked, keeping the title race alive until the final round at Suzuka and ultimately awarding the constructors’ crown to Scuderia.

Domenicali also highlighted several technical advancements that provided a championship-contending team with an advantage in subsequent years, all of which were eventually banned. He suggested that these innovations had been missing due to stricter regulations governing car design.

The Benefits of Single-Spec Components and Technological Entertainment

Domenicali believes that there are areas where single-spec components would be justified, citing gearboxes as an example. He argues that the current viewership would be more receptive to areas where technological developments and entertainment align. The people in charge of Formula 1 should consider how to implement this balance.

Fans of my generation need to rethink what creates performance and technological interest,” Domenicali added. “Focusing on sustainable fuels is absolutely the right path. But – and this may sound provocative – having teams invest huge amounts in designing their own gearboxes no longer makes sense. The performance gains are minimal. Fans no longer see it as an exciting area of development. We need to identify areas where technology and entertainment overlap.

Many things that once seemed cutting-edge no longer justify major investment, according to Domenicali. He urges the courage to accept that the landscape has evolved.