This week Formula 1 returns for Round 7 on the F1 calendar to rev up the engines for the European section of the calendar; to host the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Overview of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix takes place at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, commonly known as Imola, named after the town where the circuit is situated. Originally, the Italian Grand Prix was played at Imola in 1980, before it was used as the home of the San Marino Grand Prix in 2006, where it served as the home of the Italian Grand Prix.
It has been a long time since Imola was part of the Formula 1 calendar which was part of the events that reflect the rich automotive heritage of the Emilia Romagna region before it returned to it in 2020 as the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Imola returned to the calendar in 2020 as an alternative track to host Formula 1 in the 2020 season. Since then, the prestigious track has remained on the calendar and will continue hosting Formula 1 until 2025.
Track Layout
63 laps, counter-clockwise, in all 309 kilometres of pure adrenaline around Imola. In total, Imola is made up of 19 corners with a mix of high-speed turns as well as technical sections that test both the skill of the driver as well as the setup of the car. The 4.909 km circuit, which spans over 3.050 miles, is known for its narrow, winding configuration which provides a limited amount of overtaking opportunities. But a challenging drive nonetheless. What makes it more difficult is Imola features only one DRS Zone down the start/finish. Making overtakes only able to be made before Turn 2.
Iconic Features
The track’s configuration includes significant elevation changes throughout its 4.909 kilometres (3.050 miles), adding layers of complexity. Which demands physical endurance from the drivers and meticulous attention to car setup from the teams. Imola is renowned for its challenging corners, with the high-speed Tamburello and Variante Alta turns to be particularly notorious. These corners test the limits of the drivers’ skills and their machines and bear witness to some of the most intense and critical moments in the sport’s history.
Furthermore, Imola serves as a solemn place of remembrance for the tragic accident of Ayrton Senna in 1994. A memorial at the Tamburello corner, where the incident occurred, stands as a poignant tribute to the legendary driver. Reminding the motorsport community and its fans of the profound impacts of racing’s inherent risks and the legacy left by one of its greatest heroes.
Memorable Races Around the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
It is no secret that Imola has hosted numerous memorable races, that influence unpredictable weather conditions that have resulted in dramatic races. Among its many positive qualities, Imola’s 2020 return race, named for the Emilia Romagna region, was notable as it marked Formula 1’s return to Imola after a 14-year absence. Reintroducing fans to the challenging nature of the track.
It is worth noting that the 2021 Grand Prix also became a new chapter in the heated rivalry. Between seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen, who continue to compete head-to-head for the world championship.
Live Timings
Friday (17th May)
12:00 pm – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Practice One – (Session begins at 12:30 pm)
3:45 pm – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Practice Two – (Session begins at 4 pm)
Saturday (18th May)
11:15 am – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Practice Three – (Session begins at 11:30 am)
2:10 pm – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Qualifying – (Session begins at 3:00 pm)
Sunday (19th May)
12:30 pm – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – (Session begins at 2:00 pm)
If you would like to learn more news about the world of Formula 1? “Logan Sargeant: The Uncertainty of His Future” or “Kevin Magnussen: Hard But Fair Driving? Or Too Extreme?”
Image Credit: Red Bull Content Pool
