Emilia Romagna GP

• Track features

  Having not appeared on the calendar since 2006, Imola returned as a venue in 2020 during the shortened COVID-19 campaign, where it reminded the world of why it’s one of F1’s most beloved circuits, and it has remained a fixture ever since.

  For drivers, a myriad of factors combine to make Imola one of the most enjoyable circuits on the calendar. The narrow 4.909km track is packed full of medium to high-speed corners and proves a tough test for both driver and car.

  The tightness of the track and its short length accentuate the high-speed feel of a lap, with minimal run-off areas and multiple gradient changes. Its anti-clockwise orientation also makes it a real strain on the neck.

  The circuit wasn’t designed for cars to race side by side and has only one DRS detection point, so overtaking can be tough. Imola is one of those tracks where the importance of Qualifying is heightened. The best spot for making a move tends to be on the pit straight, which proceeds the flat-out final corner and is succeeded by a flat-out first turn. You’ll want to pay close attention to the Acque Minerali, Rivazza and Piratella corners as well, which showcase Imola’s old-school feel.

• What's it like in Emilia-Romagna?

  The Emilia-Romagna region is beautiful, filled with colourful buildings and some of Italy’s most well-preserved castles. If you get tired of wandering around the winding medieval streets, then you can escape to the gorgeous North Adriatic Sea coastline.

  Now, this is Italy, so there’s no shortage of incredible food to shout about. Emilia-Romagna is famous for its fresh-filled pasta, such as cappelletti, tortellini and ravioli. It is also home to meats such as Mortadella and Prosciutto di Parma, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

• F1 icebreaker

  Stuck for conversation with your F1-loving friends? Spark up a discussion with our F1 icebreaker…

  Ayrton Senna scored seven consecutive poles at Imola between 1985 and 1991, which is an F1 record.