188-win F1 team’s CEO now being touted as a potential replacement for FIA boss Stefano Domenicali

Formula One Group CEO Stefano Domenicali has had a very busy last few weeks.

This season represents the busiest the Formula 1 calendar has ever been and two races just confirmed their place in the sport’s future for years to come.

Iconic circuits Monaco and Monza signed new deals outside of a proposed rotation of European circuits, narrowing the options for Stefano Domenicali to consider when looking to expand F1’s global horizons.

However, the biggest news was an announcement that a General Motors-backed Cadillac team have reached an agreement in principle to join the grid in 2026.

Formula 1 hasn’t had more than 10 teams since 2016, and while the decision may have raised questions among the current outfits in the paddock, having an increased American presence in the sport appears to be a step in the right direction.

Talking about the decision to accept a General Motors entry, Domenicali said: “General Motors and Cadillac’s commitment to this project is an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport.

“We look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this application, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.”

However, a report from F1 Insider suggests that Domenicali’s position has recently been considered.

McLaren boss Zak Brown touted as potential Stefano Domenicali replacement as F1 CEO

McLaren are in their strongest position since Lewis Hamilton was driving for the team this season.

Lando Norris may have missed out on winning the Drivers’ Championship, but they currently lead Ferrari in the team standings by 24 points with two race weekends to go.

They also have Oscar Piastri on their books who appears to be the best young driver of his generation and will back himself to challenge for the title next year if McLaren are competitive.

Zak Brown has overseen much of this success from his position as CEO, although Brown has credited Andrea Stella for their recent progress.

READ MORE: Stefano Domenicali is ‘clear’ on fourth US Grand Prix after F1 applies for race trademark

The report from F1 Insider suggests that any rumours Domenicali could leave his position as Formula One Group’s CEO are wide of the mark.

However, in the Las Vegas paddock, Brown was mentioned as a ‘possible successor’ to the 59-year-old Italian.

The boss of the 188-win team has significantly improved his team’s prospects on and off the track and would be a very strong candidate to replace Domenicali when he moves on.

McLaren benefitting from Zak Brown’s influence as Constructors’ Championship crown looms

Brown first joined McLaren in 2016 before being named CEO of the racing side of the business in 2018.

With Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne in the car, McLaren improved from a ninth-place finish in the championship to sixth that year.

Both drivers moved on that winter, with Norris and Carlos Sainz brought in and results started to improve.

READ MORE: All you need to know about McLaren F1 Team from team principal to engine

McLaren have only finished outside the top four in the Constructors’ Championship once during Brown’s tenure since that maiden season.

Not only that, but Brown is considered F1’s best businessman and the additional sponsorship McLaren have earned while he’s in charge has helped pay for McLaren’s fantastic progress in recent years.

Brown would be a very good replacement for Domenicali one day, but whether McLaren would let him go is another matter.