Imola Circuit undergoes major transformation as F1 future hangs in balance

The Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari stands at a crossroads. Once banished from the Formula 1 calendar for over a decade, Imola fought its way back in 2020 as a pandemic-era solution and earned a reprieve through a three-year contract extension to 2025. Now, facing displacement from the 2026 calendar to accommodate new Spanish venues in Barcelona and Madrid, the historic Emilia-Romagna circuit is embarking on an ambitious transformation—a calculated bet that keeps the door open to a future F1 return while building a sustainable, year-round identity.

A strategic investment for the future

Rather than accept permanent relegation, Imola's ownership has committed significant resources to a comprehensive modernization program. The circuit is investing millions of euros in facility upgrades, starting with a major redesign of the paddock area. These improvements address longstanding requests from Formula 1 teams and other international competitors, positioning the circuit as a world-class venue capable of hosting motorsport's premier categories.

"Imola is not in a strong negotiating position, having failed to do all the upgrades Formula 1 asked for," according to recent analyses, which suggests these current renovations represent a crucial effort to remedy past deficiencies and demonstrate commitment to FIA standards.

Transforming the Paddock and facilities

The comprehensive upgrade program encompasses several critical improvements. The waterproof area will be significantly enlarged to provide teams with expanded space and streamlined logistics operations. Additionally, the square near the medical centre will be repaved with eco-friendly asphalt to meet the technical requirements of the FIA World Endurance Championship, replacing 1,490 square meters of dirt and 5,340 square meters of interlocking concrete blocks.

Work has commenced on covering the pit terrace in three phases, while the wall separating the paddock from the Santerno river will be reinforced—a critical safety measure following the devastating 2023 Emilia-Romagna floods that forced cancellation of that year's Grand Prix. The noise barrier protecting residential areas within the racetrack's boundaries will also be extended to meet modern safety standards.

Casa degli Eventi: a vision for hospitality

One of the most symbolic developments is the demolition of the old house situated within the Tosa hairpin, to be replaced by the "Casa degli Eventi"—a multi-purpose hospitality facility featuring panoramic views through expansive semi-circular glass windows. This structure exemplifies the circuit's ambition to modernize guest experiences while maintaining the unique character that has defined Imola since its return to the F1 calendar.

Building a sustainable year-round calendar

Perhaps most significantly, Imola is pursuing a strategic diversification that extends beyond single-seater racing. The circuit maintains an impressive international motorsport schedule, headlined by the FIA World Endurance Championship's 6 Hours of Imola each April. The calendar also features the ACI Racing Weekend, CIV Moto, the prestigious Minardi Day, and the European Le Mans Series.

To achieve sustainable operations without F1 revenue, Imola is expanding into non-racing events. The newly conceived "Music Park Arena" will host concerts and serve as a fan zone during racing events, while the Imola Duathlon brings alternative activities to the circuit's calendar. The ambitious goal: to replicate the nearly one million spectators who visited Imola in 2025—even without the 212,000 fans who attended the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.

The path forward

The F1 dream remains alive, but uncertain. With European races under mounting pressure and F1's expanding global footprint, Imola's role may evolve into that of a reserve venue or entry in a European rotation, similar to Belgium's recent arrangement. Nonetheless, by investing in world-class facilities and diversifying revenue streams, the circuit is ensuring that whenever F1 returns—whether in 2027 or beyond—Imola will be ready.