Teams in Formula 1 have been instructed to stay away from the Imola circuit as local authorities evaluate the potential risk of flooding at the track. This setback comes as teams were gearing up for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, causing delays and disruptions due to the unprecedented weather conditions in Italy.
According to multiple sources, teams have been requested by authorities not to travel to the Imola circuit until the situation is thoroughly assessed. The Emilia Romagna region is currently under a red weather alert, as intense downpours have led to widespread flooding. Although water levels near the Imola track have started to recede after surpassing the red flood limit on Tuesday night, challenges still persist at the venue.
Certain sections of the track, including the F1 television compound, have been submerged in water. While the F1 pits and paddock have been spared from the worst of it so far, images circulating on social media show flooding in the support paddock.
Reports on social media suggested that the Alpine team had to vacate its hotel in Imola due to the floods. However, the team clarified that only a few members of their set-up crew had to relocate, while the main team comprising mechanics and engineers remained in a different hotel unaffected.
On Wednesday morning, officials from F1, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, and regional authorities held discussions to determine the best course of action regarding the challenging situation in Imola and the upcoming race weekend. Weather conditions are expected to improve from Thursday onwards, raising the possibility of minimal disruption to the track action.
However, the main concern lies in managing the infrastructure surrounding the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, as several roads near the venue have been closed due to localized flooding. With a large crowd anticipated for the first European race of the season, nearby facilities may face strain, and authorities could encounter difficulties in facilitating smooth entry and exit of spectators.
Various options are being considered, ranging from proceeding with the schedule and organization as planned, to limiting the number of attendees or adjusting the weekend timetable to allow more time for venue preparations.
Tuesday’s evacuation and the loss of Wednesday will significantly hamper the setup work for F1 teams, putting them further behind schedule.