Stefano Domenicali is one of the most influential figures in modern motorsport. His journey from a young Ferrari employee to becoming the President and CEO of Formula 1 is a remarkable story built on decades of experience in racing, automotive management, and global business.

Born in Imola, Italy, Domenicali grew up surrounded by motorsport culture. After graduating with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Bologna, he began his professional career at the place every Italian racing enthusiast dreams of working: Scuderia Ferrari.

Stefano Domenicali’s Career Journey: From Ferrari to the Top of Formula 1

Ferrari Era (1991–2014)

Domenicali joined Ferrari in 1991, starting in the company’s administrative and financial department. Although he was not an engineer or racing driver, his organizational skills and leadership abilities allowed him to quickly rise through the ranks.

In 1996, he was promoted to Team Manager, before becoming Sporting Director in 2002. His rise coincided with Ferrari’s golden era alongside Michael Schumacher, when the Italian team dominated Formula 1.

During this period, Domenicali played an important role behind the scenes, managing race operations, team coordination, and the complex relationship between drivers, engineers, and Ferrari’s leadership.

In late 2007, Domenicali was chosen to replace Jean Todt as Team Principal of Ferrari.

Under his leadership, Ferrari won the 2008 Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship. However, after several challenging seasons and increasing pressure for results, Domenicali stepped down from his position in April 2014.

Expanding His Automotive Experience: Audi and Lamborghini

After leaving Ferrari, Domenicali moved beyond Formula 1 and expanded his expertise into the wider automotive industry.

In late 2014, he joined Audi AG while also serving as President of the FIA Single-Seater Commission.

His biggest achievement outside Formula 1 came in 2016 when he was appointed Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

During his leadership at Lamborghini (2016–2020), Domenicali transformed the company’s global presence. His most significant project was overseeing the launch of the Lamborghini Urus, the brand’s first Super SUV.

The Urus became a massive success and helped Lamborghini achieve record-breaking sales numbers. During his tenure, Lamborghini also introduced exclusive models such as the Lamborghini Sián, strengthening the company’s position in the ultra-luxury performance car market.

Becoming President and CEO of Formula 1

In September 2020, Formula 1 commercial rights holder Liberty Media announced that Domenicali would replace Chase Carey as the new leader of Formula 1.

On January 1, 2021, Stefano Domenicali officially became the President and CEO of Formula 1.

Since taking the role, he has overseen a major transformation of the sport, including:

• Expanding the global F1 calendar with new races such as the Miami Grand Prix and Las Vegas Grand Prix.
• Increasing Formula 1’s popularity, especially in the United States.
• Strengthening digital platforms and attracting younger audiences.
• Introducing the F1 budget cap to create a more competitive environment.
• Supporting the transition toward sustainable fuels and greener racing technology.

His leadership has helped Formula 1 achieve record levels of global attention, and his contract has been extended to continue guiding the sport through the end of the decade.

Stefano Domenicali’s Car Collection: A Private Garage With Ferrari and Lamborghini DNA

Unlike many celebrities and automotive executives who proudly showcase their collections, Stefano Domenicali is known for keeping his personal life and garage extremely private.

There is no official list of every vehicle he owns today. However, his career provides a strong connection to some of the most iconic cars in the automotive world.

Lamborghini Urus: The Symbol of His Lamborghini Era

During his time as Lamborghini CEO, Domenicali became one of the key figures behind the success of the Lamborghini Urus.

The high-performance SUV was reportedly among the vehicles he used as a company executive, representing Lamborghini’s new philosophy of combining supercar performance with everyday usability.

He also had close access to other Lamborghini models, including the Huracán and limited-production supercars developed during his leadership.

Ferrari: A Relationship Built Over Two Decades

Domenicali spent more than 20 years at Ferrari, creating a deep connection with the legendary Maranello brand.

As Ferrari Team Principal, he worked closely with some of the most advanced V8 and V12 performance cars produced by the company.

Although his personal Ferrari collection has never been publicly confirmed, Domenicali has often expressed his admiration for Ferrari’s history, engineering excellence, and racing heritage.

Official Vehicles During His Formula 1 Role

As Formula 1 CEO, Domenicali must maintain neutrality toward all manufacturers and teams, including Ferrari, Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin.

Because of this, vehicles used during race weekends are usually provided through Formula 1’s official partners, including safety and operational vehicles from brands such as Mercedes-AMG and Aston Martin.

Stefano Domenicali: The Executive Who Helped Shape Modern Formula 1

Stefano Domenicali is more than just a former Ferrari boss or a Formula 1 executive. He represents a rare combination of racing knowledge, automotive expertise, and business leadership.

From the Ferrari garages of Maranello, to Lamborghini’s headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese, and finally to the global stage of Formula 1, Domenicali’s career shows how passion for motorsport and strategic vision can lead to the highest level of the automotive world.