As Formula 1 prepares for the Imola circuit this weekend, Lewis Hamilton is set to experience the passion of the *Tifosi* at a home Italian race for the first time as a Ferrari driver. The seven-time world champion has faced varying fortunes this season, including a sprint victory and a disqualification.
Meanwhile, Franco Colapinto joins the F1 grid with Alpine, replacing Jack Doohan for a five-race stint. The Argentine previously drove for Williams for the final nine races of last season starting from the Italian Grand Prix. Now with Alpine, Colapinto has a limited window of five races to impress team boss Flavio Briatore.
This event at Imola could potentially be the last for the circuit in Formula 1. The current contract concludes at the end of 2025, and F1 chief Stefano Domenicali has indicated that hosting two races in Italy (Monza and Imola) long-term is challenging.
If it is the final Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix for a while, the conditions could make it memorable, with forecasts suggesting a wet race day. While Friday and Saturday are expected to be sunny with temperatures around 21°C, Sunday`s forecast includes scattered showers.
Latest News Highlights
Recent headlines include changes within the Alpine team structure following the announcement of Pierre Gasly`s teammate and the unexpected departure of team principal Oliver Oakes, with Flavio Briatore taking a more prominent role. Former F1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle has been awarded an OBE, and Carlos Sainz Sr. has put forward his candidacy for FIA president.
Circuit Stats and History
The Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari is a historic motorsport venue, dating back to 1953. It first hosted a Formula 1 race in 1980, uniquely replacing Monza as the Italian Grand Prix that year. From 1981 to 2006, it became a regular fixture under the name San Marino Grand Prix.
Imola returned to the F1 calendar in 2020 during the pandemic and has hosted races since, although the 2023 event was cancelled due to severe flooding in the region. With the current contract ending after 2025, its future on the calendar is uncertain as F1 explores new locations globally.
Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Quick Facts:
- First F1 race: 1980
- Lap record: 1:15.484, Lewis Hamilton (2020)
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Most wins since 1980: Michael Schumacher (7 wins). Current drivers with wins:
- Max Verstappen (3 wins: 2021, 2022, 2024)
- Lewis Hamilton (1 win: 2020)
- Fernando Alonso (1 win: 2005)
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Most poles since 1980: Ayrton Senna (8 poles). Current drivers with poles:
- Max Verstappen (2 poles: 2022, 2024)
- Lewis Hamilton (1 pole: 2021)
- What makes it special: A classic, high-speed layout with elevation changes and challenging corners, set in a picturesque park.
- Driver perspective: Described by drivers as `old school, fast, and requiring precision.`
- Recommended viewing spot: Acque Minerali (Turns 11-12), offering a view of cars braking downhill and accelerating out of a tricky valley section.
Last Year`s Race Summary (2024)
The 2024 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix saw Max Verstappen take the victory after a tight contest, finishing just 0.725 seconds ahead of Lando Norris. Charles Leclerc secured third place for Ferrari, although he lost ground to Norris after briefly running off track.
Race Predictions
Oscar Piastri arrives at Imola on a remarkable streak of three consecutive victories and is considered the favorite by bookmakers. However, Max Verstappen`s strong qualifying performance in Miami and his tendency to secure pole positions (three in the last four races) are significant. Given that Imola offers fewer overtaking opportunities and tire degradation is typically lower, Verstappen starting from pole could give him a crucial advantage. Therefore, contrary to the betting favorites, Verstappen is predicted here as the likely winner.
Championship Standings Snapshot
Oscar Piastri currently leads the drivers` championship, holding a 16-point advantage over his McLaren teammate. McLaren is dominant in the constructors` championship, leading by 105 points, having secured five wins and ten podium finishes compared to Mercedes` four podiums and no wins.
How to Watch the Grand Prix
Viewers in the U.S. can watch the sessions on ESPN and ESPN+. In the U.K., live broadcast coverage is available on Sky Sports F1 and BBC Radio 5 Live.
For news, analysis, and updates, follow coverage from motorsport journalists covering the event from Italy and on social media platforms.
Session Times (BST – British Summer Time):
(Local time, Central European Summer Time, is BST + 1 hour)
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Friday:
- Free practice one: 12:30-13:30 BST
- Free practice two: 16:00-17:00 BST
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Saturday:
- Free practice three: 11:30-12:30 BST
- Qualifying: 15:00-16:00 BST
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Sunday:
- Race starts: 14:00 BST
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood