Might 18 (GMM) Formulation 1’s new thought to yearly alternate some European races may save the long-lasting Imola circuit from the axe.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, who was really born close to the fabled Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit in Italy, just lately admitted will probably be “tough” for Imola to outlive on a bustling calendar that additionally options Monza.
Imola polesitter and championship chief Oscar Piastri, nonetheless, warns Formulation 1 to be “cautious” in axing a few of the finest circuits.
“We must be cautious to not lose all of the historic tracks which were right here without end as a result of at the least 75 % of them are the favourites for the drivers,” mentioned the Australian.
“Right here (Imola) might be going to vanish, Zandvoort is disappearing, Spa is on a rotation. We do must be cautious to maintain all these tracks.”
Quadruple world champion Max Verstappen agrees, mentioning that with in the present day’s automobiles which might be “too large, too stiff, too heavy,” road circuits are “boring”.
“On tracks like this, it’s loads of enjoyable,” the Dutchman added. “So many quick corners, and the restrict is the gravel or the grass. That makes it extra thrilling and tougher to nail.”
McLaren CEO Zak Brown thinks it’s “luxurious downside” for Formulation 1 to have extra international locations and circuits vying for a spot on the calendar than it is ready to accommodate.
“Greater than 24 isn’t potential for logistical causes,” he advised Bild newspaper. “I wish to see a majority of the races have a set spot on the calendar.
“To realize this, some tracks ought to rotate, internet hosting a grand prix solely each different 12 months. We’re properly positioned in Europe, and the identical goes for America. India, Korea, and South Africa come to thoughts as potential hosts.
“There is also a second race in China, and I see nice development potential within the Asia-Pacific area.”
Alongside Imola, Brown thinks one other circuit with potential to be hosted yearly is Hockenheim, which might revive the German GP after a conspicuous absence.
“Germany is a large market,” mentioned the American, “with Mercedes and Audi. Maybe it will be a good suggestion to carry a grand prix there each two years.”
As for Imola, Brown agrees that it will be unhappy to see the Italian circuit go.
“I really like Imola,” mentioned the McLaren CEO, “however I additionally love Monza. If considered one of them actually must be faraway from the calendar, then I’d advocate for the elegant rotation resolution right here as properly. Even when that’s actually simpler mentioned than executed.”
