Emilia-Romagna GP threatens to end: Is the end coming for Imola?

Emilia-Romagna GP threatens to end: Is the end coming for Imola?

The future of Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix is on the brink. From 2026, the traditional Italian race track could be missing from the F1 calendar. This was announced by Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, in a radio interview with “Rai Gr Parliamento”. Domenicali explained that with the increasing interest in Formula 1, it would be difficult to host two Grands Prix in one country.

The contract with the is currently running Autodromo Internazionale Enzo and Dino Ferrari in Imola after the race on May 18, 2025. This means that the route no longer has a permanent place in the calendar for the coming season. The contract with Monza, however, remains in effect until 2031, which further complicates the situation for Imola.

Hope for a rotation model

Domenicali, who himself comes from the Imola region, emphasized that the decision about the future of the route is difficult. He received numerous inquiries from various countries that could potentially contribute to the expansion of Formula 1. However, there is a possibility that Imola remains on the calendar as part of a rotation model of multiple European venues, which could allow for a sporadic return of the track.

Last year the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix held on May 19, 2024. The route is 4,909 kilometers long and includes 63 laps. This event is considered one of the highlights of the season, particularly due to its history dating back to the previous San Marino Grand Prix.

The debate over whether Imola will remain on the Formula 1 calendar raises questions about the future of other traditional racing circuits in Europe as Formula 1 aims to expand its global commitment and enter new markets. The decision on Imola's fate could be crucial for how the racing series develops in the coming years.