Imola Plans Major Modernisation in Bid to Return to Formula 1 Calendar
The Imola circuit is set to undergo a significant modernisation programme as it seeks to keep the door open for a potential return to the Formula 1 calendar in the future.
The historic Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari was dropped from the F1 schedule after the 2025 season, ending a six-year run as host of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. With Formula 1 continuing to expand into new global markets and increasing the number of races outside Europe, competition for limited calendar slots has intensified.
Imola made a popular return to Formula 1 in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, stepping in to fill gaps in the revised calendar after a 13-year absence. The comeback was well received, prompting several circuit upgrades and a contract extension that secured its place on the calendar through 2025. However, mounting pressure on European events combined with Formula 1’s plan to stage two races in Spain from 2026, ultimately led to Imola losing its slot once again.
Despite this setback, local authorities and circuit organisers remain determined. Working closely with the Municipality of Imola, the circuit has begun planning a comprehensive upgrade of its facilities. The project is designed not only to enhance the venue for its current events, but also to ensure the track meets modern Formula 1 requirements should an opportunity to return to the championship arise.
From F1 news to tech, history to opinions, F1 Chronicle has a free Substack. To deliver the stories you want straight to your inbox, click here.
For more F1 news and videos, follow us on Microsoft Start.
New to Formula 1? Check out our Glossary of F1 Terms, and our Beginners Guide to Formula 1 to fast-track your F1 knowledge.
Comments
More in News
‘We’re getting entertained’, Damon Hill explains why ‘tactical’ racing is putting on a show
Mario Kart in Real Life: Why the 2026 Japanese GP Crash is F1’s Ultimate Warning Sign
‘It’s just not what I want to do’, Max Verstappen admits there is a lot for him to figure out as F1 future decision looms
FIA acknowledge “high closing speeds” contributed to Bearman Japan shunt, but what’s going to change?
