Discover the full Emilia-Romagna GP 2025 weekend schedule and what to expect as F1 returns to Europe’s legendary Imola circuit.
Formula 1 finally returns to Europe in 2025, and the legendary Imola circuit is the first stop on the continent.
After six rounds across various parts of the world, the paddock lands in Europe for round seven of the season. It’s the start of the European leg and also marks the beginning of a grueling triple-header, the second of the year. By the end of this stretch, teams will have competed in nine races over just 12 weekends, a demanding pace that’s already sparking concern across the paddock.
A Look at the Track
Imola has evolved since its 2006 layout. One of the key changes is the removal of the Variante Bassa chicane, which used to be the final corner before the main straight. Now, cars run flat-out from Rivazza through to Tamburello, with only two slight right-hand kinks in between.
Tamburello and the Variante Villeneuve come quickly, leading into the slow Tosa hairpin. From there, drivers tackle Piratella and Acqua Minerale, both of which are much faster than they were two decades ago. The lap wraps up with the tight Variante Alta and the iconic double left-hander at Rivazza. Imola remains fast and flowing but narrow, with tight corners and few overtaking spots.
Who’s Looking Strong?
Red Bull and McLaren head into the weekend as the favorites. Lando Norris has a strong record here, and Max Verstappen is riding a streak of three straight wins at Imola, with the 2023 event having been canceled due to floods.
Mercedes will aim to build on recent progress, particularly in managing tire wear, while Ferrari needs to maximize the potential of its SF-25. Strong qualifying results will be crucial if they want to challenge for the podium in front of their home crowd.
In the midfield, it’s too close to call. Williams could be the surprise package, especially after solid showings from Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz in Miami.
Aston Martin will be under pressure. The team has struggled in recent rounds and is hoping that new upgrades will help them bounce back after underwhelming performances in Jeddah and Miami. Imola could be a turning point for their season.
Weekend Schedule (Local Time – CEST)
This weekend follows a traditional race format, no Sprint sessions, with all sessions in European time.
| Day | Date | Session | Time (CEST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | May 16 | Free Practice 1 | 13:30 – 14:30 |
| Free Practice 2 | 17:00 – 18:00 | ||
| Saturday | May 17 | Free Practice 3 | 12:30 – 13:30 |
| Qualifying | 16:00 – 17:00 | ||
| Sunday | May 18 | Race | 15:00 – 17:00 |
Get ready for one of the most atmospheric races on the calendar, as Formula 1 returns to one of its most historic tracks. Imola never disappoints.
Past Winners at Imola – Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix
| Year | Circuit | Winner | Team | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Imola | Max Verstappen | Red Bull | Honda |
| 2022 | Imola | Max Verstappen | Red Bull | Honda |
| 2021 | Imola | Max Verstappen | Red Bull | Honda |
| 2020 | Imola | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes | Mercedes |
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