Join us behind the scenes of Formula 1: our reporters were present at every Grand Prix in 2025, including in Imola. We write about our experiences not only online, but also in our magazine. Part 7 of 24: André Venema on bunkers at the Emilia-Romagna GP.
Formula 1 drivers, partly due to social media and its unpleasant narcissistic side effects, are now free-roaming and highly sought after. Not only in public, but especially during Grand Prix in the paddock. In Imola, I was once again reminded of the sometimes absurd behavior of fans seeking a selfie or autograph.
And there’s the next bottleneck… It’s Saturday morning: the drivers are trickling into the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari. A platoon of photographers awaits them, as usual, for a harmless and obligatory shot at the entrance of the paddock. But also those lucky enough to have secured a VIP pass for the paddock are on the lookout for their chance. They all want something from the drivers, often pushing and shoving. Much is permitted, especially among the most audacious. Sneak routes and permanent security have become quite normal for many drivers.
The Past
In the past, the paddock was a pleasant gathering place where you could simply approach drivers to ask something, journalists were welcome in the teams’ motorhomes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You would hear things and could maintain relationships in a pleasant way. That has changed since the pandemic: teams have become very selective with their door policy and hospitality. Motorhomes are luxury bunkers where team personnel, VIPs, guests, and drivers take refuge, and the real stars only come out when necessary.
In Imola, I discovered Haas’s new motorhome. One that meets the demands of modern times in Formula 1: with dark windows that I presume allow you to look out from the inside, but not from the outside in. This way, no one is bothered by prying eyes in a world where seeing and being seen is the norm. The success of the sport also has its downside.
