As Formula 1 heads to Imola this weekend, Lewis Hamilton is set to experience the famous `Tifosi` crowd at a Grand Prix for the first time while driving for Ferrari. The seven-time world champion has encountered varied fortunes so far this season, including a sprint race victory and a disqualification.
Adding to the grid changes, Franco Colapinto returns to F1 with Alpine. He joins for a five-race period as part of a driver swap with Jack Doohan. Colapinto previously stepped in for Logan Sargeant at Williams during the latter part of the previous season, competing in the final nine races. This current opportunity gives him five races to prove his capabilities to Alpine boss Flavio Briatore.
There is speculation that this year`s event might be the last time F1 visits Imola. The circuit`s contract is scheduled to end in 2025, and Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali has commented on the challenge of hosting two Grands Prix in Italy.
If it is indeed the final race in the region for a while, it could prove memorable, especially with forecasts hinting at potential rain. While Friday and Saturday are expected to be sunny with temperatures reaching up to 21°C, scattered showers are predicted for Sunday`s race day.
Jump to a section: Circuit history & stats | 2024 race | race predictions | how to watch | championship standings
Latest News
- Alpine`s communications department has been busy since the last race in Miami, announcing changes including the news of Pierre Gasly`s new teammate and the unexpected departure of team principal Oliver Oakes. F1 senior writer Laurence Edmondson has provided context on these developments and considered what might happen next for Alpine under Flavio Briatore`s management.
- Carlos Sainz Sr. has announced his intention to run for FIA president, receiving early support from figures like James Vowles.
- Former F1 driver and current TV analyst Martin Brundle has been awarded an OBE.
- A preview of the race and the latest episode of the F1 podcast `Unlapped` are available, featuring Nate Saunders and Laurence Edmondson from Italy.
Circuit Stats and History
The Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari is a historic motorsport venue, first hosting a race in 1953.
F1`s initial visit was in 1980, when it uniquely held the Italian Grand Prix instead of Monza. The following year, Imola became a permanent fixture, hosting the San Marino Grand Prix for 26 years until 2006, when it was removed to make space for the Belgian Grand Prix`s return.
Loved by both fans and drivers for its classic layout, Imola rejoined the F1 calendar in 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic led to a search for alternative hosting venues.
It has since hosted four additional Grands Prix, although the 2023 event was called off due to severe flooding in the region. With its current contract concluding at the end of 2025, the 2025 race might be the last for a while as Formula 1 focuses on securing races in new international markets.
Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – Key Information
- First F1 race: 1980
- Lap record: 1:15.484, Lewis Hamilton (2020)
- Most wins (since 1980): Michael Schumacher with seven (1994, 1999, 2000, 2002-2004, 2006). From the current grid: Max Verstappen (2021, 2022, 2024), Lewis Hamilton (2020), Fernando Alonso (2005).
- Most poles (since 1980): Ayrton Senna with eight (1985-1991, 1994). From the current grid: Max Verstappen (2022, 2024), Lewis Hamilton (2021).
- What makes it special: An old-school, fast, and challenging circuit featuring tight, undulating corners and immense history. On sunny days, the picturesque park setting adds to its charm.
- Driver perspective: Sebastian Vettel described it: `It`s old school, fast, and you need to be precise.`
- Best viewing spot: Acque Minerali (Turns 11-12). This tricky section involves braking downhill into a dip and then accelerating back uphill, appearing faster and more challenging in reality than on TV.
What Happened Last Year (2024 Race)
Max Verstappen claimed victory, holding off Lando Norris by a narrow margin of just 0.725 seconds in a tense battle. Charles Leclerc of Ferrari finished third, 7.9 seconds behind Norris, after losing time by missing his braking point and cutting a chicane during the race.
Race Predictions
Oscar Piastri is currently highlighted for a strong run of form, having recently secured three consecutive victories, leading to bookmakers favoring him this weekend.
However, Max Verstappen demonstrated his qualifying strength by being fastest in Miami and securing pole position in three of the last four races. If he can achieve pole at Imola, the limited overtaking opportunities on the circuit, combined with expected lower tire degradation reducing McLaren`s usual in-race tire advantage, could favour him.
For these reasons, we predict Max Verstappen as the likely winner.
How the Championships Look
Information regarding the championship standings is typically presented here. (Note: The source article mentioned McLaren dominating the constructors` standings by 105 points, and Oscar Piastri leading the drivers` standings by 16 points ahead of his teammate.)
How to Watch the Grand Prix
For viewers in the U.S., coverage is available on ESPN and ESPN+.
In the U.K., live broadcasts can be found on Sky Sports F1 and BBC Radio 5 Live.
For the latest news, analysis, and updates, follow the coverage from the F1 team on site in Italy and on social media.
Below are the session times in BST (British Summer Time). Local time (Central European Summer Time) is one hour ahead (+1h).
Friday
- Free Practice 1: 12:30-13:30 BST
- Free Practice 2: 16:00-17:00 BST
Saturday
- Free Practice 3: 11:30-12:30 BST
- Qualifying: 15:00-16:00 BST
Sunday
- Race starts: 14:00 BST (Live text commentary build-up from 13:15 BST)
Dominic Ashworth