THE FACTS

The Mayor of Rome has announced that the city has officially deserted its effort to host a round of the FIA Formula One World Championship. Rather, Rome will now focus on a bid for the 2020 Olympic Games. “This move represents a step backwards," said Mayor Gianni Alemanno, "because we have always said we would have done so, should the FIA have posed an alternative between Rome and Monza. However, we have an Olympic dream that is still going on: so let's make clear to Italy and to the world that we want to stage the games in Rome.”

Despite penciling in a date on the 2013 F1 calendar, the bid had received stiff opposition from locals and Monza - which promised to do all it could to protect its own Grand Prix. Even Ferrari has said that there should be no more than 20 races and that one race per country is sufficient.

The suggestion that Rome and Monza alternate Grands Prix never sat well with Monza.

MY TAKE

Given its history, Monza will - and should - always be favored by Formula One. Also, F1 should be focused on expanding into new markets - not more of the same. Look at how badly the second race in Spain has turned out.

At first, I thought this would be a nice race. But after consideration, I came to realize that it is just a bad idea. While screeching through the streets of Rome around the iconic historical monuments waxed romantic, in reality it would have been yet another processional street race. Personally, I am now glad that this idea died a quick death.

SOURCES

Rome Formally Ends F1 Bid - CRASH.net

 

Can't say I'm surprised really, given the prospect of the Olympic games going there. It would've been cool to see a street race in Rome (my boss and I were planning to go if it happened) but this will make it easier for there to be a race in Russia or India now.

 

I'd rather see a street race in Paris or London

 

I'd rather see a street race in NYC!

 

An off-road rally would be more appopriate.


I really home Rome gets the 2020 Olympics.

 

Monza FTW!

 

tsk, would have been fun