Stefano Domenicali: A Power Player in Motorsports
When it comes to influential figures in motorsports, Stefano Domenicali is a name that commands attention. From leading Scuderia Ferrari to serving as CEO of Lamborghini and now overseeing the Formula One Group, he has cemented his place as one of the industry’s most powerful leaders. But beyond the titles and accolades, who is Stefano Domenicali? What shaped his journey, and what does his personal life look like? Let’s take a closer look at the life and career of this motorsports icon.
Early Life and Passion for Racing
Born on May 11, 1965, in Imola, Italy, Stefano Domenicali developed a deep love for racing from an early age. Growing up in a town synonymous with motorsports, he spent his weekends at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit, where he assisted in the paddock and media center. While his father, a banker, provided him with a stable and traditional upbringing, it was clear that Stefano’s true passion lay in the world of high-speed competition.
Climbing the Ranks at Ferrari
Stefano Domenicali pursued higher education at the University of Bologna, where he earned a degree in Business Administration in 1991. His academic background, combined with his passion for motorsports, led him to Ferrari, where he began his career in the finance department. His impact was quickly recognized, and by 1992, he was appointed racing director at Mugello, where he gained valuable experience working in the DTM series and other racing competitions—laying the groundwork for his future leadership roles.
Domenicali’s rapid ascent within Ferrari continued when he became head of personnel in the sporting department. By 1996, he was promoted to team manager, later taking on the role of Logistics Manager before securing a key leadership position as Sporting Director. His exceptional rise culminated on November 12, 2007, when Ferrari announced that he would succeed Jean Todt as Team Principal of Scuderia Ferrari.
Leading Ferrari to Victory
As Team Principal, Domenicali guided Ferrari to success, leading them to win the 2008 Constructors’ Championship. This victory reinforced his reputation as one of the sport’s top executives. However, challenges arose in the following years, with Ferrari managing only a single race win in 2009 and struggling to maintain consistent performance. Despite multiple Grand Prix victories in the seasons that followed, the team faced mounting pressure, and after a difficult start to the 2014 season, Domenicali stepped down from his role in April of that year.
Transitioning to Audi and Lamborghini
Following his departure from Ferrari, Domenicali embraced new opportunities, joining Audi in October 2014. His expertise made him a valuable asset in the motorsports world, and he soon took on another influential position as head of the FIA’s Single-Seater Commission, where he played a key role in shaping the future of single-seater racing.
Leading Lamborghini to New Heights
In 2016, Stefano Domenicali took on a new challenge as CEO of Lamborghini, ushering the brand into an era of unprecedented success. Under his leadership, Lamborghini achieved record-breaking sales and introduced groundbreaking innovations that reinforced its status as a top luxury performance brand. After steering the company for nearly five years, Domenicali stepped down on December 1, 2020, passing the reins to Stephan Winkelmann.
CEO of Formula One
Just when it seemed that Domenicali had accomplished it all, another major milestone arrived in September 2020—he was named CEO of Formula One Group, succeeding Chase Carey for the 2021 season. In this role, he has played a crucial part in expanding the sport’s global footprint, implementing new race formats, and driving sustainability initiatives aimed at making F1 more eco-friendly.
Stefano Domenicali’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Domenicali’s net worth is estimated to be around $130 million, amassed through decades of high-profile executive roles in motorsports. His tenure at Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Formula One has contributed significantly to his financial success, with annual earnings reportedly around $22 million.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Beyond his professional achievements, Domenicali maintains a private and family-centered lifestyle. He has been married to Silvia Colombo since 2011, and the couple shares two children, Martino and Viola. Silvia, though preferring to stay out of the spotlight, comes from a motorsports background as the daughter of renowned F1 photographer Ercole Colombo. She is often seen supporting her husband at major racing events.
Domenicali’s Home and Car Collection
Despite his considerable wealth, Domenicali leads a relatively modest lifestyle compared to other high-profile executives. He owns a multimillion-dollar home in the United Kingdom, where he resides with his family. As a dedicated car enthusiast, he boasts an impressive collection of luxury vehicles. However, despite naming the Lamborghini Miura as his favorite model, he surprisingly does not own one.
Women in Formula One: Domenicali’s Controversial Take
In 2022, Domenicali sparked debate when he remarked that he did not foresee a female driver competing in Formula One within the next five years. His statement ignited discussions about gender equality in motorsports, with some arguing that physical demands pose challenges, while others point to systemic barriers as the primary obstacle.
Efforts have been made to increase female participation in motorsports, notably with the launch of the W Series in 2018. This all-female championship was designed to provide more opportunities for women in racing and create a pathway toward Formula One.
The Future of Formula One Under Domenicali
Since assuming the role of F1 CEO, Domenicali has been at the forefront of modernizing the sport. He has introduced Sprint Races, expanded F1’s reach in the United States and the Middle East, and spearheaded sustainability initiatives, including the ambitious goal of achieving carbon-neutral racing by 2030. His leadership continues to shape the future of Formula One, balancing innovation with tradition in one of the world’s most dynamic sports.
