The Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola has offered to the Formula 1 organization to organize a Grand Prix behind closed doors this year. The track wants to come to the rescue after many races have been canceled.
The circuit in Imola was continuously on the Formula 1 calendar as the San Marino Grand Prix between 1981 and 2006. Ayrton Senna died there on the track in 1994.
“We see the current situation as an opportunity to put ourselves up for a Grand Prix,” said circuit boss Selvatico Estense to Motorsport. “Formula 1 needs races to meet the conditions of the World Championship, so why not at Imola?”
The first nine races of the season have already been postponed or canceled due to the corona crisis. According to FIA regulations, a minimum of eight races must be run for the season to count as the official world championship.
“We can offer the circuit for free. By not allowing any public, the organization can be arranged quickly. Without ticket sales, we cannot promoters fee pay, “says Estense.
Grand Prix is possible at any time of the year
The circuit director states that a possible Formula 1 race can be fitted at any time of the year. “Of course it depends on the corona measures of the government whether the race can come. But in Italy there is also already thinking about playing football matches without an audience.”
A race in Imola may be linked to the Grand Prix of Italy in Monza, which is scheduled for September 6. The Grand Prix at Spa, which is scheduled for August 30, does not seem to be able to take place because the Belgian government bans events until September 1.
“If we plan our race just before or after the race in Monza, it will save the teams a lot of travel and transport costs. But even in October or November the weather is still good enough here to have a race,” said Estense.
With more than 25,000 fatalities, Italy is the most affected country in Europe by the corona virus. The country has been in a severe lockdown since March, but the daily death rate still fluctuates around five hundred.
“I think people would like to return to Imola,” says Estense nonetheless. “It is also a dream for us, and for the time being no more than that.”
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