Montezemolo: Ecclestone’s Monza Exit Threats Are Nothing New
Luca di Montezemolo says warnings about Monza’s future on the Formula One calendar have become routine, as Bernie Ecclestone seeks a higher fee for the Italian Grand Prix.
Luca di Montezemolo has dismissed the latest warnings from Bernie Ecclestone over Monza’s future in Formula One, saying threats to drop the Italian Grand Prix have become a familiar part of contract talks.
Speaking ahead of the 2015 Italian Grand Prix, Montezemolo, former Ferrari president, described Ecclestone’s demands for a higher hosting fee as nothing new. He pointed out that each time the Monza contract comes up for renewal, similar threats emerge about losing the historic race from the calendar.
Longstanding tension over Monza’s F1 future
Monza’s place on the Formula One calendar has come under repeated scrutiny as contract negotiations with Formula One Management have grown more contentious. Ecclestone’s push for increased fees has put pressure on organisers, but Montezemolo said the pattern is well established and usually resolved before a deal expires.
Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has publicly supported Monza’s efforts to retain the race, which remains a highlight for Italian fans and a fixture since the world championship began. Montezemolo argued that losing Monza would be a blow to Formula One’s tradition, especially after the recent loss of the German Grand Prix.
What’s at stake for the Italian Grand Prix
As negotiations continue, Monza’s organisers face the challenge of balancing tradition with Formula One’s commercial demands. With government backing, they aim to secure a new deal, but the outcome depends on whether a compromise can be reached with Ecclestone’s management. For more on Monza’s contract talks, seeMonza targets new F1 contract before Australian GP.
