Emilia Romagna GP in doubt as horror floods CLOSE Imola F1 track – and it could even affect Monaco race
HEAVY FLOODING at Imola means the track has been closed, putting this weekend’s Emilia Romagna F1 Grand Prix in doubt.
All staff have been told to stay away from the track and an update from F1 bosses is expected at 1pm.
The vast amount of rain to have fallen in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy has left part of the venue underwater.
And it means this Sunday’s Emilia Romagna GP could be in doubt.
Yesterday, circuit bosses evacuated the paddock due to flood risks.
The main F1 paddock is currently above water, but some other areas are flooded, according to the BBC.
The circuit is located right next to the Santerno river.
And there is a red weather warning in place as adverse conditions continue to batter the region.
After the track was evacuated on Tuesday, heavy rain persisted overnight.
More rain is expected throughout Wednesday.
The drivers are scheduled to arrive at the track on Thursday for the weekend’s action.
But the conditions could have a knock-on effect on the Monaco GP, which is scheduled for next week.
The logistics of packing down from Imola in poor conditions and getting out on the already congested and closed roads could prove to be difficult.
This weekend’s GP is the first of three races in three weeks, with the Spanish GP in Barcelona set to follow after Emilia Romagna and Monaco.
What does this mean for the Emilia Romagna GP?
By Ben Hunt
What happens next?
F1, FIA, the circuit owners, plus the promoter who host the event will meet this morning to assess the flood risk. A further update will be made around 1pm.
Can they cancel the race?
They can do, but if the river has not yet breached the bank, it is likely to remain in place. Like we learned from Covid, F1 like to cut these things fine and give the best opportunity to have the race go ahead as planned. The majority of turn equipment has now been set up so the focus will be to get the race underway.
What’s the weather forecast?
It is still raining, which is the concern, for it is causing the river to rise. But it is due to ease over the next fews days, however, more rain is expected on Sunday.
Will this impact the Monaco GP next week?
It could do. Monaco is notoriously difficult to set up due to the limited space and bigger motor homes. Aside from flood damage, the biggest headache will be the logistics of packing down from Imola in poor conditions and getting out on the already congested and closed roads.
What other measures can they take?
The sensible option would be to make this a non-spectator event. Cutting the risk factor of having people stuck at the track, plus it would also ease congestion allowing teams and emergency services to operate safely and effectively.