Could the 2025 Imola Grand Prix Be I…read more
This weekend, Formula 1 returns to the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Italy for what might be the final Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, at least as a regular feature on the F1 calendar. While the race isn’t officially named the Italian Grand Prix—that title belongs to Monza—it is still affectionately known to many fans and drivers simply as “Imola,” in reference to its location. The 2025 edition of the race could mark a turning point, potentially signaling the end of an era for one of Formula 1’s most historic circuits.
Imola has a rich legacy in F1, having hosted races in various capacities since 1980. Originally used as an alternative to Monza, the circuit became the site of the San Marino Grand Prix and later returned to the calendar in 2020 under its current name, the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. However, its future in the sport is uncertain, with the current contract expiring this year. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has recently cast doubt on the possibility of both Monza and Imola remaining on the calendar simultaneously, given the increasing number of countries vying to host a Grand Prix.
In a recent interview, Domenicali explained the challenges of continuing with two races in Italy. He acknowledged the deep historical and cultural significance Italy holds in the sport but emphasized the logistical and strategic difficulties of hosting two races in a single country. One potential solution he mentioned was a rotation system between Imola and Monza, which could allow both circuits to remain part of the sport in a more limited capacity.
Monza, located in the Lombardy region near Milan, is widely considered the spiritual home of Ferrari fans, known as the “tifosi.” The track is iconic not just for its high-speed layout but also for the atmosphere created by the passionate crowd, famous for their celebrations and post-race track invasions. Despite this, Imola holds a special place in Ferrari’s heart due to its proximity—just an hour away from the team’s Maranello headquarters. This geographic closeness makes Imola more than just another race venue; it’s Ferrari’s true home ground.
Still, heritage and sentiment may not be enough to save Imola from being sidelined. Formula 1 has been rapidly expanding its global reach, with new circuits and countries expressing interest in hosting races. Nations such as Thailand and South Africa have recently submitted strong bids, intensifying the competition for a spot on the increasingly congested calendar. With a finite number of slots available, F1 faces a tough balancing act between honoring its history and embracing future opportunities.
A significant issue working against Imola is its track layout. Originally built for smaller, nimbler cars, the narrow circuit offers limited overtaking opportunities, particularly with only one DRS zone over its 4.909 km length. This characteristic has made races at Imola—and similar legacy tracks like Monaco—less thrilling for modern audiences who prefer more dynamic and overtaking-heavy action.
Domenicali summarized the dilemma during a conversation with RAI radio, stating, “Italy has always been and will be an important part of Formula 1. But it will be increasingly difficult to have two races in the same country because interest in F1 is growing and it’s a situation we will have to deal with in the coming months.” He concluded by admitting that “it’s hard for this situation with Imola and Monza to continue together on the calendar for long.”
As Formula 1 navigates the tension between legacy and innovation, the fate of the Imola Grand Prix hangs in the balance. Whether through rotation or removal, 2025 could very well mark the final chapter of Imola as a permanent fixture in the sport’s global tour.
