The Emilia-Romagna GP is a favourite race among many Formula 1 drivers. In the run-up to the race weekend in Imola, the historic circuit was widely praised for its iconic turns and old school layout. However, this track is in danger of disappearing from the calendar soon – the chances of extending the current contract, which expires in 2025, are slim. Drivers Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri are advocating for Imola and all other traditional circuits.
“It would be a shame if we don’t come here anymore,” Oscar Piastri responded during the official FIA press conference. The Australian secured pole position for the Emilia-Romagna GP on Saturday. “I understand that you can’t necessarily have two circuits in one country, but we have to be careful not to lose all these traditional circuits,” he warned. “If you ask the drivers what their favourite circuits are, you often end up with Silverstone, Suzuka, Spa, and then also Imola and Zandvoort. We’re already losing Zandvoort and Spa will start rotating soon.”
International Competition
Max Verstappen would also regret it if the Emilia-Romagna GP disappeared from the calendar. However, the chances of Formula 1 returning to the Imola circuit after Sunday are slim. Countries worldwide are lining up to host their own Grand Prix, as confirmed repeatedly by Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. The Italian, who himself hails from the Emilia-Romagna region, will have to make a decision soon.”I receive so many requests from countries around the world that can further grow Formula 1,” Domenicali stated in a previous radio interview with Rai Gr Parlamento. “I will soon have to make a definitive choice. Italy has always played a significant 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. The international interest is simply too great.”
