Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, has received the Atlantic Council Global Citizen Award, with the organization honoring the influence of his leadership far beyond the race track. Established back in 2010, these awards spotlight individuals whose governance and contributions embody global citizenship and inspire others toward a better world across various industries and professions.
The recognition celebrates his achievements in turning F1 into a global cultural force alongside his ongoing efforts to connect fans globally and uplift new generations. Domenicali received the honor during a ceremony held during UN Assembly Week in New York, sharing the stage with President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese, and award-winning actress Cynthia Erivo.
The celebration kicked off with a montage of congratulatory messages from close acquaintances, including F1 actor Brad Pitt, tennis player Jannik Sinner, and His Serene Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco. Actor and motorsport fan Keanu Reeves then handed the award over as Domenicali took the stage.
“To begin the evening with messages from friends I hold so dear was a truly wonderful surprise,” Domenicali stated upon taking the stage. “I thank them for their words, their affection and above all, for choosing to share this moment even from afar. As you can imagine, receiving the Global Citizen Award is a great honour for me, and I accept it with gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility.”
Reflecting on his career and the nature of competition, he added: “Being here alongside individuals who, through different journeys and experiences, have each contributed to society carries special meaning for me. I spent my entire professional life in sport and it has taught me one very simple lesson – it is possible to compete at the highest level without ever losing respect for others.”
“We live in a complex time – a time in which differences too often become distances, and distances become divisions. I believe that sport can remind us of something very simple. We can be different. We can compete. We can even be rivals and choose to recognise and respect one another. I have the privilege of witnessing this almost every weekend in Formula 1,” Domenicali explained, detailing the international melting pot of the paddock and grandstands before concluding that competition at its best brings people together rather than driving them apart.
