F1 Boss Stefano Domenicali Honoured at Atlantic Council Global Citizen Awards in New York
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali has been honoured at the prestigious Atlantic Council Global Citizen Awards in New York, with the organisation celebrating his leadership and impact far beyond the racetrack.
Established in 2010, the Global Citizen Awards identify visionary individuals whose contributions embody global citizenship and inspire positive change across diverse fields and industries. The Atlantic Council recognised Domenicali for overseeing Formula 1’s evolution into a global cultural phenomenon, as well as his dedication to bridging international divides and inspiring younger generations.
The ceremony, staged during UN General Assembly Week, also honoured the President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and award-winning actress Cynthia Erivo. Domenicali was presented with the award on stage by Hollywood star and motorsport enthusiast Keanu Reeves, following a video tribute featuring messages from actor Brad Pitt, tennis world number one Jannik Sinner, and Prince Albert II of Monaco.
'Competition Does Not Have to Divide Us'
Accepting the award, Domenicali reflected on how motorsport can unite disparate backgrounds and foster mutual respect even amid intense competition.
"To begin the evening with messages from friends I hold so dear was a truly wonderful surprise," Domenicali stated. "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.
"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."
He continued: "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.
"When I step in our paddock, I see a small world – thousands of people arriving from every corner of the planet. They speak different languages and come from different cultures, histories and perspectives... Yet, when the lights go out, millions of people share the same emotion at the very same moment. To me, this is one of the most beautiful aspects of sport. Competition does not have to drive people apart. At its best, it can do exactly the opposite – it can bring people together."