Formula 1 returns to Imola this weekend for what will possibly be the final time the series races at the famous Emilia-Romagna circuit.
Imola’s contract is due to expire at the end of this year, prompting debates as to whether its deal should be extended or not.
The old school track first graced the F1 calendar in 1980 having replaced Monza as host of that year’s Italian Grand Prix due to renovation work at The Temple of Speed.
Even as Monza returned for 1981 though, Imola stayed in F1 but this time hosting the San Marino Grand Prix to kickstart a 25-year stay on the calendar.
Imola dropped off for 2007 before returning during the COVID-hit 2020 campaign, this time as the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, and it has remained ever since.
But there is a lot of debate as to whether or not Imola has a place in the modern day F1, due to the much bigger than before cars while the circuit remains tight and twisty.
This has limited overtaking opportunities in recent years with some fans not best pleased with the entertainment of the race – so, should its contract extend beyond this year and if it isn’t, will Imola even be missed?