Imola F1 Grand Prix | A Tribute to Racing History at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari

Located in the picturesque town of Imola, just southeast of Bologna, the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari—better known as Imola Circuit—is a cornerstone of motorsport tradition. Revered for its historic significance and technical demands, this legendary track made a celebrated return to the Formula 1® schedule in 2020, reigniting fan enthusiasm with its distinctive layout and deep legacy.

A Closer Look at the Circuit

Measuring 4.909 kilometers (3.050 miles), the Imola Circuit challenges drivers across 63 laps, totaling 309.05 kilometers (192.25 miles). Renowned for its combination of long straights and technical curves, the circuit demands exceptional driver focus and skill. With top speeds approaching 296.7 km/h (184.8 mph), every lap at Imola delivers intensity and precision.

Race Essentials for Visitors

The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix is usually held in mid-May, when weather conditions are ideal for racing and spectating. With average daytime temperatures around 23°C (73.4°F), fans can expect a pleasant race weekend. The track is situated in the Emilia Romagna region, with Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) offering the most convenient access. Italy uses the Euro (EUR), and the local language is Italian. The region operates on Central European Summer Time (UTC+2).

Where to Watch: Grandstand Highlights

Several grandstands at Imola offer diverse and thrilling perspectives of the race. Along the main straight, the Partenza 2, 3, and 4 Grandstands give fans a front-row seat to the starting grid, pit stops, and the race’s climactic conclusion. These seats are numbered and partially covered for added comfort.

At Turn 7, the Tosa 1 Grandstand offers a close-up view of one of Imola’s most famous overtaking zones—the tight Tosa hairpin. Though the seats don’t include backrests, their proximity to the action makes up for it.

The Acque Minerali 1, 2, and 3 Grandstands provide elevated views of one of the most exciting sections on the track—Turns 11 and 12. While these numbered seats are without back support, they offer sweeping sightlines of fast-paced, high-grip corners.

Further down the circuit, Rivazza 1 & Prato Rivazza Grandstands overlook the double-apex Rivazza corners (Turns 16 and 17). Here, fans can enjoy immersive views integrated into the natural terrain—a fantastic spot for last-lap battles.

At the top of the lap near Turns 2 and 3, the Villeneuve 1 and 2 Grandstands give a perfect angle on the Variante Villeneuve chicane, where cars dart through quick changes of direction. Numbered seating ensures clear sightlines, although, like other stands, they lack backrests.

General Admission Viewing

Tthe General Admission areas offer freedom to explore various parts of the circuit. Spectators can catch the high-speed action from grassy embankments, particularly around Acque Minerali and the area between Turns 2, 3, and 4—prime locations for overtakes and close racing.

A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

From its founding in 1953 to its modern resurgence, Imola has continuously balanced tradition with innovation. Its return to the Formula 1® calendar has reestablished it as a fan-favorite, blending technical racing with rich Italian heritage. Whether you’re a die-hard F1 follower or a newcomer to the sport, watching a Grand Prix at Imola promises an unforgettable motorsport experience.