The conclusion of the 2021 Formula 1 season left an indelible mark on the sport. Max Verstappen clinched his first World Championship title in a dramatic showdown against Lewis Hamilton in the final race at Abu Dhabi. However, the race was clouded in controversy, following a last-lap overtaking maneuver that left Hamilton and his team, Mercedes, protesting the results.

Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, has dismissed Max Verstappen‘s 2021 Championship victory, marred by the Abu Dhabi controversy. Despite acknowledging Verstappen’s commendable success, the F1 executive wishes for future championships to be controversy-free and hopes for enduring icons to inspire newer fans.

“Obviously I don’t deny that I’d like to see championships with a comparison drawn up to the last lap of the last race, like in 2021, but without the Abu Dhabi controversy,” said the F1 CEO, Domenicali. He affirmed that while dramatic championships add a thrilling dimension to the sport, it’s crucial to ensure that these instances are free from controversies like the one that unfolded in Abu Dhabi.

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This perspective shared by the CEO underscores a critical concern about the integrity of the sport amidst the thrill of competition. However, it also segues into a broader dialogue about the role of iconic figures in shaping the future of Formula 1.

What Stefano Domenicali Thinks About the ‘Making of Icons: A New Era for Formula 1’

Apart from the gripping on-track action, another aspect of the sport that has captured the attention of the F1 CEO is the power of iconic figures. Popular figures like Verstappen, Hamilton, and others significantly influence how new fans perceive and connect with the sport. Their charisma and prowess can transcend their active career span, echoing the legacies of legendary champions from other sports.

“If we look at tennis, even as a non-regular spectator, I can easily recall names of past champions who have left their mark on the sport. Similarly, F1 needs pilots who become fixed points for new generations,” he said. “…it is important to have ongoing iconic figures to inspire future enthusiasts.”