During the race weekend of the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix, the Formula 1 paddock at the Hungaroring featured more than just drivers, engineers, and team principals. Representing Italy on a diplomatic and strategic mission were Marco Panieri, the mayor of the city of Imola, and Piero Benvenuti, the general manager of the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari. Their presence was not just symbolic — the two Italian officials were actively involved in high-level discussions regarding the future of the Imola Grand Prix in the Formula 1 World Championship.
Panieri and Benvenuti held meetings with Formula 1 executives with the goal of securing a contract renewal for the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. According to sources close to the negotiations, the Italian delegation has already submitted a formal offer. That proposal is now under review by the Formula 1 leadership, marking a critical step in the effort to ensure Imola remains a fixture on the calendar beyond its current agreement, which runs through 2026.
Ongoing negotiations as Imola aims to secure its future in Formula 1
Discussions between the Italian representatives and Formula 1 authorities are said to be progressing in a positive and constructive manner, although several important aspects still require further clarification. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the proposal from Imola is already built on a strong and competitive economic and organizational foundation. However, finalizing the agreement will depend on finding common ground on specific logistical and contractual terms.
The Imola circuit — officially named the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari — has made a successful return to the Formula 1 calendar in recent years. Initially reintroduced during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its strategic location and flexibility, the Italian venue has since won over fans, journalists, and team personnel alike, thanks to its blend of historical significance, technical layout, and a unique and passionate atmosphere.
Yet, despite its popularity, Imola’s future is far from guaranteed. The increasing competition among international venues vying for a spot on the Formula 1 calendar — particularly from regions in the Middle East, Asia, and the United States — means that every contract renewal requires careful negotiation and significant effort.
Italy committed to keeping two Grand Prix events on the calendar
The active presence of Marco Panieri and Piero Benvenuti at the Hungaroring underscores the strong commitment of Italian institutions to keeping the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix alive and thriving in future seasons. For the region, the event is not merely a race — it is a strategic opportunity for economic development, international visibility, and national pride.
The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix generates substantial economic benefits for the surrounding region, drawing tens of thousands of fans from Italy and abroad. It also enhances Italy’s global reputation as a motorsport hub — a legacy that includes not just the historic Imola circuit, but also the legendary Monza track, home of the Italian Grand Prix.
Now, the decision lies in the hands of Formula 1’s senior leadership, who must evaluate all the proposals on the table and determine which venues will continue to be part of the championship beyond the 2026 season. Italy, which proudly hosts two races — at Imola and Monza — is determined to remain one of the key nations on the Formula 1 map in the post-2026 era. The future of the sport’s presence in the country may soon be decided.
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