Imola's future on the F1 calendar in doubt, says Stefano Domenicali
Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has hinted that the beloved Imola Grand Prix may soon be absent from the race schedule, as Italy faces the challenge of maintaining two grands prix amid an expanding 24-round calendar filled with new contenders.
"Italy has always been and will be an important part of Formula 1," Domenicali mentioned in an interview with RAI radio. "However, it will be increasingly difficult to host two races in the same country. Interest in F1 is growing, and it's a situation we will have to deal with in the coming months."
The difficulty of sustaining both the Imola and Monza races on the calendar was further emphasized. "It's hard for this situation with Imola and Monza to continue together on the calendar for long," Domenicali said.
Having an emotional connection to Imola, the former Ferrari boss, who hails from the region where the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix is held, acknowledged that the decision would be tough from a personal standpoint. Nonetheless, a broader, global perspective must be adopted.
Imola made its return to the Formula 1 schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and has held its place since, although the 2023 race was canceled due to severe flooding in the area. On the other hand, Monza, which hosts the Italian Grand Prix, has been a staple on the F1 calendar since the sport's inception in 1950, except for a single year in 1980. Known as Ferrari's spiritual home, Monza is contracted to remain on the calendar until 2031.
In Europe, no other country hosts two races. However, Spain is set for an overlap next season as Madrid will debut as the new Spanish Grand Prix venue, while Barcelona enters the final year of its current contract. Meanwhile, the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort has already confirmed its exit after 2026.
Globally, the United States currently boasts three races, and discussions are underway for China to gain a second race. Thailand is also in negotiations for a spot on the calendar starting from 2028, and Formula 1 is keen on making a return to Africa.
As F1's global interest peaks, the calendar's expansion poses significant challenges and decisions, with Imola's future hanging in the balance.
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