Stefano Domenicali returns to formula 1, but with a command post of great importance. Confirmation is awaited but the news has been circulating online for a while: the Imola entrepreneur would be the new CEO of Formula 1, taking over from Chase Carey. His return, as he had already played a leading role in Ferrari in the past. He is considered a great connoisseur of Formula 1 and the Maranello team.
Stefano Domenicali, from Imola to the major automotive companies
Domenicali is 55 years old and is currently the president and CEO of Lamborghini. Born in Imola after graduating in Economics and Commerce from the University of Bologna, he began his adventure at Ferrari. In fact, he initially worked in the administrative area of the company where he dealt with internal relations with Fiat. Then to the Racing Team and Chief of Staff of the Sports Management and Team Manager. His career at Ferrari continued with the role of Sporting Director from 2002 until 2007, and later as Team Principal of Scuderia Ferrari. His relationship with Ferrari ended on April 14, 2014.
The successes of Stefano Domenicali
But during his work at Ferrari the company achieved great success. Among them in 2008 first place in the constructors' championship, Felipe Massa second and Kimi Räikkönen third. And then third place in the constructors' championship in 2010, 2011 and 2013, second place in 2012. He was awarded by the President of the Republic as Official Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. After leaving Ferrari he joined Audi as vice president of New Business Initiatives and then in 2016 president and CEO of Lamborghini.
Now the return to Formula 1 for him
The “RaceFans” website gave the news of his return to Formula 1. An important return also given its past. He has an excellent relationship with Formula 1, with the general manager Ross Brawn but also with the president of the FIA Jean Todt. The switchover with Carey could happen before the start of next season. So in 2021. He will thus be the CEO of Formula One Group, the sports arm of Liberty Media. He will reinforce the team of former Ferrari drivers in Formula 1, Jean Todt and Ross Brawn.
Stefano Domenicali had recently defended Ferrari after failing in the last few races. In an interview on 'Il Resto del Carlino' he defended team principal Mattia Binotto at the center of much controversy. "I speak from personal experience and I know how complex it is to manage this team - has explained -. Criticizing Mattia is not constructive. If there was a magician capable of immediately changing the situation I would agree, but there is not, so only by working hard and having patience can an improvement come.".
