---
title: "Domenicali: F1 will ‘fight to the end’ to stage 23 races in 2021"
canonical: "https://readmotorsport.com/2021/06/23/domenicali-f1-will-fight-to-the-end-to-stage-23-races-in-2021/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Hamilton Lyndon-Griffiths"
section: "F1 News"
published: "2021-06-23T15:04:17Z"
modified: "2021-06-23T15:04:19Z"
---

# Domenicali: F1 will ‘fight to the end’ to stage 23 races in 2021

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says he remains committed to holding 23 races over the 2021 season despite doubts still lingering over several grand prix’s.

The ongoing pandemic has presented F1 with logistical challenges as COVID-19 restrictions have forced it to make changes to the 23-race schedule.

The season-opening Australian Grand Prix has been delayed until November, while Canada and Singapore have cancelled their events for a second consecutive year.

Turkey was added to the calendar as a replacement for Canada only for it to join the UK’s ‘red list’ for travel restrictions.

Japan, Brazil and Mexico’s current situation has put their races in jeopardy, with all three rounds taking place in the second half of the season.

While F1 continues to face challenges staying on course with its original schedule, Domenicali is determined to stage 23 races this year.

“The plans are \[to have 23 races\] as we discussed with the teams, that’s the target and we will fight down to the end to make sure that this is happening,” said Domenicali, as quoted by Crash.net.

“Because with a season like this, you don’t have to miss any one.”

F1 has welcomed fans back in small numbers at some races this season, with 15,000 attending the French Grand Prix across each of the three days.

Spectators are expected to rise in numbers as the season progresses, with a full capacity at next month’s British Grand Prix given the all clear after being added to the UK government’s pilot events.

As F1 prepares to allow fans at this weekend’s Styrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring, Domenicali believes it will be a “game-changer” returning to larger attendances.

“It’s been great to see the reaction of our drivers to the fans, cheering with them, it has been really great,” Domenicali said.

“Already in Austria, there will be crowds, second Austria will be full crowds, and then hopefully, provided that we respect all the safety requirements of the countries, we are going to see more crowds in the next races.

“This will be a game-changer for the incredible season that we are having this year.”