Imola’s exit sparks Piastri’s call to safeguard F1’s heritage

F1 championship leader Oscar Piastri emerged as a vocal advocate last weekend for the sport’s classic circuits, warning that shedding classics like Imola risks eroding Grand Prix racing’s soul.

As Formula 1 continues its global expansion, moving into new markets and embracing high-profile destination venues, the future of some of the sport’s most historic tracks hangs in the balance.

One such circuit – Imola’s legendary Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari – is set to fall off the F1 calendar after the 2025 season, and that loss isn’t sitting well with drivers who revere the sport’s heritage.

Imola’s exit is part of a broader trend. Zandvoort will bow out after 2026, while Spa-Francorchamps faces a rotational deal that will see it absent in 2028 and 2030.

Iconic circuits like Hockenheim and Nurburgring have already been sidelined to make room for new, often sterile, street circuits in countries with little racing heritage.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has cited the difficulty of justifying two Italian races – Monza being the untouchable priority – amid bids from emerging markets. Yet, for Piastri, Imola’s loss is personal.

“It’s a great circuit,” the McLaren driver said of Imola. “I’ve only raced here once [before 2025], but it’s definitely towards the top end of my favourites.”

The Case for Classic Circuits

Piastri acknowledges the commercial pressures driving F1’s calendar decisions but urges caution.

“Having two races in the same country, with how many bids we have from around the world, maybe doesn’t make that much sense anymore.

“And when you have Monza as your second race in Italy, it’s pretty hard not to go to Monza. There’d be some riots if we didn’t!” he notes, recognizing the Temple of Speed’s sacred status. Yet, he warns against sacrificing tracks like Imola for the sake of expansion.

“So for me, we just need to be careful to preserve the history. Zandvoort is going, Spa is going to be on rotation, which I’m not the happiest about,” he added.

“We just need to be careful not to lose these historical tracks.

As far as the Aussie is concerned, Imola’s old-school charm—its unforgiving corners and lack of overtaking opportunities—offers a unique test of an F1 car’s limits.

“OK, maybe it’s not the best track to race on — not the best for overtaking — but in terms of the ultimate experience of driving an F1 car, this is at the top of the list. We need to be mindful of that.”

“A Great Track with a Massive History”

That sentiment is echoed by newly promoted Alpine driver Franco Colapinto, who represents the next generation of F1 talent but already understands the emotional weight of racing at a place like Imola.

“I love Imola, I love Italy as I have some great memories and great history here,” Colapinto said.

“I started in Monza — that was my debut in Formula 1 — and now it's Imola. Still in Italy, but with Alpine. I love Imola. It’s a great track with a massive history in Formula 1. We all like coming here.”

The Argentine driver also praised the character and uniqueness of Imola compared to the more formulaic nature of some newer, Tilke-designed circuits.

“The history this brings to the sport, it’s a great track, and especially to drive a Formula 1 car here. There are specific corners — it’s such an old-school track, it’s very enjoyable to drive.”

As Imola prepares to fade from the calendar, Piastri and Colapinto’s words serve as a reminder of what’s at stake.

The sport’s pursuit of global reach must not come at the cost of its roots. For every shiny new street circuit, there’s an Imola – a track that tests drivers, evokes history, and fuels the passion of those who race there.

F1 must heed Piastri’s call to “be careful” and ensure that its historic heart continues to beat.

Read also: Stella on why McLaren pitted Piastri early in Imola GP

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