Imola is pressing ahead with preparations for a possible return to the Formula 1 calendar in December 2026, even though no decision has been made to move the season finale away from Abu Dhabi. Temporary grandstands are already being erected at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, with images and videos showing work progressing as the championship approaches a crucial decision over its final races.
The 2026 Formula 1 World Championship is currently scheduled to conclude in Abu Dhabi on December 6, but Imola is preparing as though the Italian circuit could actually host the final Grand Prix. While Ford is carrying out track tests connected to its World Endurance Championship programme, work continues around the venue to install the same temporary grandstands used during recent editions of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
The images and videos accompanying these developments document the progress being made at the circuit, despite the continued uncertainty surrounding its possible Formula 1 return.
Imola prepares for possible 2026 F1 season finale as Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain uncertain
As previously reported, Formula 1 has authorised Imola to prepare for a potential season finale should the security situation in the Middle East deteriorate further. The Italian venue remains a contingency option if conditions make it impossible to hold the championship’s remaining races as originally scheduled.
With the situation in parts of the region already extremely complicated, the possibility of further deterioration remains a serious concern.
Liberty Media’s preference is still to honour the original calendar, keeping both the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix in their planned positions. The 2026 Formula 1 calendar continues to list Qatar as the penultimate round and Abu Dhabi as the season finale on December 6.
Nevertheless, Imola is taking concrete steps to ensure that it could stage the final race if necessary. The preparations have been authorised by Formula 1 itself, although the associated financial risks are being borne by the organisers.
This means the circuit is committing resources and carrying out work for an event that has not yet been officially confirmed.
Imola mayor Marco Panieri confirms city’s readiness to host Formula 1
The city of Imola has also reiterated its willingness to welcome Formula 1 back at short notice. Mayor Marco Panieri, who was contacted directly, confirmed that the city remains fully available should the championship require an alternative venue.
“Imola is ready and available. The situation in some parts of the world is really complicated, and we are ready to play our part,” Marco Panieri explained.
The mayor’s position reinforces the commitment already demonstrated by the circuit, where the installation of grandstands and other preparations continues despite the lack of a final decision.
Imola has been positioning itself as a potential replacement venue for the closing stages of the championship, with local authorities prepared to support a Formula 1 return if the opportunity arises.
Video: Preparations underway at Imola
Watch footage of the preparations at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari
November 10 emerges as crucial deadline for Imola F1 decision
Time, however, is beginning to run out. According to information gathered by journalist Adam Cooper, November 10 could represent the decisive deadline for approving any potential relocation of the season finale to Imola.
The date has emerged as an important point in the decision-making process, although the possible move remains unconfirmed.
Formula 1 therefore faces a rapidly approaching decision over the final rounds of the 2026 season. By next week, greater clarity is expected regarding whether the championship will proceed with its scheduled Middle Eastern events or activate the alternative arrangements being prepared in Italy.
The uncertainty comes amid wider concerns about the security situation in the region. As previously reported, Formula 1 teams have faced growing concerns over the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races, although neither event has been officially replaced.
Imola continues preparations without confirmation of a Grand Prix
For now, the contrast between Formula 1’s position and the activity at Imola remains striking. The championship has yet to confirm any change to its calendar, but the Italian circuit is already installing grandstands, organising the surrounding areas and preparing for the possibility of hosting the final Grand Prix of 2026.
The preparations demonstrate that Imola is treating the opportunity seriously, even though there is still no guarantee that the race will take place.
In this unusual situation, the biggest concern is not necessarily whether the circuit can be made ready in time. The more pressing question is whether Formula 1 will ultimately give the green light for the Italian venue to host the season finale.
Until that decision is made, Imola will continue preparing for a Grand Prix that could become reality in December — or remain an unused contingency plan.
Video: Further footage of the work underway at Imola
Watch additional footage of Imola’s Formula 1 preparations
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