Formula 1’s Expansion Threatens Iconic Italian Circuits as Imola Faces 2026 Calendar Axe
Formula 1’s relentless global expansion has sparked a firestorm of debate, with the sport’s iconic Italian circuits—Imola and Monza—under threat of being dropped from the 2026 calendar. Stefano Domenicali, F1’s CEO, has confirmed that the addition of new races, including Madrid’s 2026 debut and potential events in Thailand and Rwanda, could force the removal of one of Italy’s historic tracks. With Imola’s contract expiring in 2025 and mounting financial pressures from emerging markets, the sport faces a pivotal moment: can it balance its storied heritage with the demands of a 24-race calendar? Drivers, teams, and fans are voicing concerns, warning that prioritizing money over tradition risks alienating the sport’s passionate core.
The issue stems from F1’s unprecedented growth, fueled by the Netflix series *Drive to Survive* and a surge in global interest. The 2025 calendar already boasts a record 24 races, and new venues are clamoring for slots. Thailand and Rwanda have emerged as frontrunners, with Domenicali praising Rwanda’s vision under President Kagame and Lewis Hamilton’s vocal support for an African Grand Prix. Thailand’s talks, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, signal Bangkok’s ambition to host a street race. Meanwhile, Madrid’s 2026 arrival threatens Barcelona’s place, but Italy’s dual races—Monza, secured until 2031, and Imola—face the most immediate danger. Domenicali admitted, “It will be increasingly difficult to have two races in the same country,” hinting that Imola, his hometown circuit, is likely to be sacrificed. This decision is complicated by Imola’s heroic role in 2020, hosting two races during the COVID-19 crisis when other nations hesitated, a contribution now seemingly overlooked.
The financial allure of new markets like Saudi Arabia, which is eyeing deeper F1 involvement, contrasts sharply with the cultural weight of tracks like Imola. Known as the Temple of Speed, Monza remains a fan favorite, its 2024 race electrified by Charles Leclerc’s one-stop strategy triumph for Ferrari. Imola, steeped in history, carries emotional resonance for the Tifosi and drivers like Hamilton, who may never race there again if it’s dropped. Ferrari, a dominant force in F1, is expected to oppose this move, as their home races fuel unparalleled fan support. Yet, Domenicali’s international role forces him to prioritize growth, even at the cost of tradition. “I have to exercise an international role that puts me in front of many requests around the world,” he said, acknowledging the human toll of potentially axing Imola.
Drivers are also sounding alarms about the calendar’s toll. George Russell highlighted the physical strain on crews, proposing a rotation schedule to ease logistical burdens, especially during grueling triple-headers like Brazil, Las Vegas, and Abu Dhabi.
Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso have been vocal critics, with Verstappen warning he may retire early if the schedule compromises his family time. The shift toward street circuits, like those proposed in Bangkok, further frustrates drivers, as modern F1 cars are ill-suited for narrow, urban tracks. While 2026’s narrower cars may help, the sport’s soul—rooted in historic venues like Imola—feels at risk.
The backlash from fans and teams underscores a broader question: is F1 losing its essence in pursuit of profit? Dropping Imola could alienate loyal supporters and dilute the sport’s heritage, especially as Ferrari and drivers like Hamilton champion its significance. As Rwanda and Thailand push for inclusion, F1 must decide whether to honor its past or chase a lucrative but uncertain future. The 2026 calendar is shaping up as a battleground, and the sport’s direction hangs in the balance.
