Formula 1’s new race rotation strategy may offer a lifeline to iconic circuits like Imola, as calendar space becomes increasingly limited.
Formula 1’s new initiative to alternate certain European races each year could save the iconic Imola circuit on the calendar.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, who was born near the legendary Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit in Italy, recently admitted it would be “difficult” for Imola to survive with an already packed calendar that also includes Monza.
Imola pole-sitter and championship leader Oscar Piastri, however, warned Formula 1 against removing some of the best circuits.
“We must make sure we don’t lose all the historic circuits that have been around forever, because at least 75% of them are the drivers’ favourites,” said the Australian.
“Imola will probably disappear, Zandvoort is going, Spa is rotating. We must make sure we keep all these tracks.”
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen shares that view, stressing that with today’s cars being “too big, too stiff and too heavy, street circuits are boring.”
“On tracks like this, it’s great fun. There are so many fast corners, and the limit is gravel or grass. That makes the layout more exciting and harder to master.”
McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes it is a “luxury” for Formula 1 to have more countries and circuits competing for a calendar slot than it can actually accommodate.
“More than 24 races is not possible for logistical reasons. I would like most races to have a fixed place on the calendar.”
“To achieve that, some circuits would need to alternate and host a Grand Prix only every other year. We are well positioned in Europe, and the same goes for America. India, Korea and South Africa come to mind as potential hosts.”
“There could also be a second race in China, and I see strong growth potential in the Asia-Pacific region.”
In addition to Imola, Brown believes one circuit could potentially alternate every year with Hockenheim, which would bring the German GP back after a noticeable absence.
“Germany is a huge market with Mercedes and Audi. It might be a good idea to have a Grand Prix there every two years.”
As for Imola, Brown admits it would be sad to see the Italian circuit disappear.
“I love Imola but I also love Monza. If one of them really has to drop off the calendar, I would also advocate the elegant solution of rotation. Even if it’s certainly easier said than done.”
- Discover More>Briatore: “Only performance will determine Colapinto’s future”
- Follow us on >FACEBOOK and >TWITTERfor F1 update