Imola, a cherished circuit in the Formula 1 world, has voiced its “bitterness” following the news that it will be absent from the F1 2026 calendar. This decision comes as a surprise, as the historic track had gained a resurgence during the COVID-affected seasons. In a heartfelt statement, local officials expressed disappointment but remain hopeful for a return, declaring that this is far from Imola’s swan song.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali had previously indicated that making “difficult” decisions for the upcoming calendar was inevitable. With Imola making way for a new street track in Madrid as the new venue for the Spanish Grand Prix, the excitement is met with a bittersweet sentiment from the fans and officials associated with Imola.
The circuit’s joint press release with the Municipality of Imola and the Emilia-Romagna region captures this sentiment, acknowledging a widespread feeling of “disappointment and bitterness.” Despite the exclusion, the statement emphasizes that this does not mark the end for the beloved track known for combining thrilling races with the charm of its historic surroundings.
Officials are not throwing in the towel just yet. They’ve confirmed the allocation of “necessary resources” should a chance for an unexpected comeback arise, hinging on Madrid’s final FIA circuit homologation. In the meantime, discussions to bring Formula 1 back to Imola are already in motion, highlighting the proactive stance taken by the local authorities.
The statement further describes the united efforts from the Emilia-Romagna Region and the Municipality of Imola, stressing the avoidance of “controversy or accusations.” Instead, they’ve called for “responsibility and a resumption of discussions for the track’s return to the calendar.” Since late May, they have been actively engaging the government and sports authorities to set up a formal discussion for bringing F1 racing back to Imola.
Despite the setback, the narrative around Imola remains one of hope and resilience. Fans around the globe share a collective disappointment, but the determination of the local authorities signals that the legendary track’s story may well continue in the future.
In the world of Formula 1, circuits come and go, but the spirit and legacy of Imola remain unwavering. While Imola’s immediate future with F1 looks uncertain, the efforts to reignite its place in racing history are resolute. The next chapter for Imola may be unwritten, but the determination to see it unfold is unmistakably present.
