On Tuesday, the FIA and Formula 1 presented the calendar for the 2026 season. One familiar location is missing – the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, better known as the Imola circuit. The mayor of the Italian city, Marco Panieri, confirmed that the Emilia-Romagna GP – a staple in Formula 1 since the coronavirus pandemic – is not included in the calendar. However, this does not mean it’s the ‘end of the road’ for Imola.
“This news was known to us and understandably raises questions, disappointment, and bitterness,” said Panieri in an official statement. “In recent years, our region has proven to be able to organize an extraordinary event with record numbers of visitors.” Imola made a temporary return to the Formula 1 calendar during the 2020 pandemic season. It remained a staple afterwards, partly thanks to the enthusiasm of the fans. Amidst all the ultra-modern street circuits, the classic track – inextricably linked with the sport – was a breath of fresh air.
The mayor confirmed that the event was loved by both drivers and fans: “Its unique character was evident – the race was combined with the charm of the area, starting with a historic center.” However, Panieri emphasizes that Imola’s disappearance from the calendar does not have to mean a final farewell. “We want to be very clear,” he stated emphatically, “this news is not the end of the story.”
‘We Pulled Out All the Stops’
The contract that was signed in 2021 was valid until the current season. Although the four-year collaboration was considered ambitious at the time, it was successfully realized. “We have always been aware of the complexity of the calendar,” concluded Panieri. “But as the Emilia-Romagna region and the municipality of Imola, we truly pulled out all the stops. We have repeatedly emphasized the importance and strategic value of the Grand Prix – with transparency, clarity, and full willingness to cooperate.”
Despite this, the collaboration was not extended and Formula 1 will not be returning to Imola for the time being. According to CEO Stefano Domenicali, the international interest is simply too great. “Italy has always played an important role in Formula 1 and will continue to do so in the future, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to hold two races in the same country,” he stated in a radio interview with Rai Gr Parlamento in April. Ironically, three Grand Prix races are held in the United States – a new and moreover lucrative market for the premier class.
