F1 CEO warns Italy may lose Imola Grand Prix amid global expansion

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has signaled that Italy is unlikely to continue hosting two Grands Prix, suggesting Imola may drop off the calendar after its contract expires in 2025, while Monza is secured until 2031. The decision is driven by growing international demand to host F1 races and the need to make space on an already expanded 24-race calendar. Domenicali emphasized the importance of Italy in F1 history but noted the challenge of justifying two races in one country as other regions, such as Thailand, South Africa, and China, express interest in joining the schedule. Imola was reinstated during the COVID-19 pandemic and has remained except for 2023, when flooding caused a cancellation. Other European countries generally do not have multiple races, with Spain as a temporary exception due to an overlap between Madrid and Barcelona in 2026. The push to diversify the calendar reflects F1's goal of expanding its global footprint, making it difficult for traditional venues to retain multiple slots.