Imola regains Grade 1 licence to take step towards F1 return

Imola has moved closer towards a return to the F1 schedule after it was officially granted the FIA Grade 1 licence it needs to host a grand prix.

The Italian venue – named the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari – hosted the San Marino Grand Prix between 1981 and 2006, as well as 1980 when it was referred to as the Italian Grand Prix.

In recent years the venue, which has retained a similar layout but upgraded its facilities, has sought a return to the calendar, but this has accelerated in recent weeks after being identified as one of F1’s standby events should it need to adopt a more European-centric calendar for the coronavirus-disrupted 2020 F1 season.

Now the venue has moved a significant step closer to making that a reality by confirming it has returned to a full Grade 1 licence.

“With the renewal of the licence we are in the condition to host an F1 Grand Prix, having all the standards requested by the FIA,” said Formula Imola Chirman Uberto Selvatico Estense. “We hope that such dream becomes true with the teamwork of the Institutions and Territory.”

Imola could become one of three races to be held on Italian soil this year amid rumours that Ferrari-owned Mugello is also a favourite to host an event if plans to venture to Asia and the Americas falls by the wayside.

As it stands, only eight races (from the 15 to 18 F1 plans) have been confirmed, with seven cancelled and nine postponed or pending.

However, with the likes of the USA, Mexico, Brazil, China and Vietnam looking less likely due to the strict entry and logistical requirements, Mugello and Imola, plus Portimao and the Hockenheimring could be called up to take their place.

Should Imola or Mugello go ahead, it could form the basis of a triple Italian run of races starting with Monza on 6 September.