As a result of continued heavy rainfall and flooding in the area, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola has been canceled. The focus now shifts towards providing assistance to those who have been tragically affected by these recent events.
The region has already experienced devastating flooding and landslides, resulting in the loss of two lives and the displacement of hundreds of people. These incidents have placed immense pressure on emergency services and the affected individuals.
Despite hopes that Imola would still be able to host the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, which was slated to be Round 6 of the F1 2023 season, the ongoing circumstances have necessitated its cancellation.
Unfortunately, heavy rain resurfaced in the days preceding the event, leading to the precautionary evacuation of all F1 personnel from the circuit on Tuesday. Water levels in the paddock were rising while preparations for the event were underway.
On Wednesday morning, Formula 1 officials were extensively engaged in discussions regarding the outcome of the race weekend. As a result of these deliberations, it has been officially announced that the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix will not proceed as scheduled.
A statement issued by Formula 1 read: “The Formula 1 community wants to send its thoughts to the people and communities affected by the recent events in the Emilia-Romagna region.
“We also want to pay tribute to the work of the emergency services who are doing everything they can to help those in need.
“Following discussions between Formula 1, the president of the FIA, the competent authorities including the relevant ministers, the president of the Automobile Club of Italy, the president of Emilia Romagna region, the Mayor of the City and the promoter, the decision has been taken not to proceed with the Grand Prix weekend in Imola.
“The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event for our fans, the teams and our personnel and it is the right and responsible thing to do given the situation faced by the towns and cities in the region.
“It would not be right to put further pressure on the local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time.”
