Iconic track faces imminent shutdown
In the world of Formula 1, change is on the horizon as the sport aims to balance its global race schedule. One of the countries potentially affected by this shift is Italy, which currently hosts two races – the Italian Grand Prix at Monza and the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola.
Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, finds himself at the helm of these changes. Originally from Imola, Italy, Domenicali acknowledges that keeping Imola on the calendar long-term is challenging due to calendar constraints and the desire to spread the races more evenly across the globe.
Domenicali, who is currently 59 years old, must consider global perspectives in his role. He is actively engaging with interested parties from Africa and Thailand for potential future races, and talks are underway for a second Chinese race.
Currently, there are three World Championship races held in the USA. As the calendar evolves, Domenicali aims to manage the number of events per country and region more equitably. For the 2026 season, European countries hosting multiple Formula 1 races include Italy, Spain, Germany, and France, although the exact host countries with multiple races for next season haven't been fully confirmed yet.
The possible removal of one Italian race is part of F1’s broader effort to open calendar slots for new venues while balancing traditional and emerging markets in racing. Meanwhile, several European countries, including Italy, are known for hosting multiple Grands Prix, though the final structure for next season remains to be finalized with an open mindset, as emphasized by Domenicali.
For Domenicali, the potential removal of Imola from the calendar is bittersweet. He understands the significance of the race to the sport and the fans, but also recognizes the need for Formula 1 to evolve and grow. As the calendar continues to take shape, fans can expect exciting new developments in the world of Formula 1.
[1] For more information, please refer to the official Formula 1 website and news sources.
Sports enthusiasts should keep an eye on Formula 1's schedule changes, as the sport works to balance global races with new venues in mind. In the case of Italy, there might be a reduction in the number of races, potentially affecting both the Italian Grand Prix at Monza and the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola.
