Source: REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq
[Saba Sports News] Recently, the official F1 2026 calendar was released, but surprisingly, the Madrid circuit replaced the Imola circuit. The Imola circuit failed to achieve consecutive hosting since returning in 2020; the 2023 race was canceled due to severe flooding in the area. The absence of the Imola circuit has caused “disappointment and pain” among local officials, who believe this decision ignores the successful hosting records of the circuit in recent years. However, Imola officials stated they are making efforts to hope to bring the Imola circuit back to the F1 calendar in the future. The Imola circuit has a long history and carries rich F1 racing history and cultural connotations. Many classic races and unforgettable moments have occurred here; it is an important part of F1’s development journey, and both fans and drivers have deep emotional connections with it. The editor believes that although the withdrawal of the Imola circuit is regrettable, the adjustment of the F1 calendar is the result of multiple factors. However, Imola also indicated that they are striving to bring the circuit back to the F1 calendar, hoping their efforts will succeed and allow this classic circuit to reappear on the F1 stage.