Last race this weekend?
Cult track in Imola stands before the end
14.05.2025 – 4:13 p.m.Reading time: 1 min.
Imola has been part of Formula 1 for decades – now a traditional course could do its last round. The contract expires.
If the Grand Prix of the Emilia-Romagna is held this weekend, this could be the last race on the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola for the time being. The contract for the route ends with the current season. In the calendar for 2026 there is no more space for the historical course.
The 4.909 kilometer route is closely connected to the history of Formula 1. The weekend in 1994 is particularly remembered when two drivers lost their lives in Imola: first Roland Ratzenberger, then the great Ayrton Senna, both of whom died in serious accidents. The event not only shaped the history of the race track, but also changed the security thinking of the entire series.
The 2005 race is also considered one of the most exciting in the modern Formula 1 story: Michael Schumacher, already seven-time world champion at that time, a gripping duel with Fernando Alonso fought on home. The Ferrari pilot came into the race after a difficult qualification from 14th place, caught up and put Alonso under pressure. Although Schumacher was much faster, he failed to overtake the Renault driver. Alonso defended himself with a cool head and great driving art to the target flag.
It is currently open whether and when Imola could experience a comeback. One thing is clear: a historic place of motorsport could soon disappear from the calendar.