Monza and Imola decided to join forces to save both Grand Prix in Italy after 2026. Domenicali and the Italian government could support them.
In Monza, during the Italian Grand Prix, the future of Formula 1 in Italy was the topic of some conversations.
For some time now, it’s been uncertain if Italy could keep both GPs on the calendar. Many were the possible solutions: the Italian Grand Prix stays while the Emilia Romagna goes; an alternation between the two… But there may be another option. The major of Imola, Marco Panieri, and the major of Monza, Paolo Pilotto have talked and joined forces in a project that may keep both the Temple of Speed and the Enzo e Dino Ferrari in the circus. A united front instead of a some sort of civil war.
They both know that many countries aspire to host Formula 1. And they are stronger and richer. However, Stefano Domenicali, the president and CEO of F1, has never claimed that Italy can’t keep both appointments. Even though Formula 1 is getting bigger and bigger, he recognizes that it’s important to stay true to the original core of the sport.
How Monza and Imola can help to promote Italy worldwide?
That Formula 1 produces, and requires, a lot of resources it’s a well known fact. Fans travel all around the world to assist to races and to support their favourite teams. This, of course, means more tourism. Last year, the Italian Grand Prix alone had more 350 000 visitors (the highest number ever in the history of the GP), with a gain around 250 million for the entire region.
The Italian Grand Prix and the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix represent a huge opportunity for the economy in Italy. The races can assure a platform to promote the entire Italian country worldwide. But there is more, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix could help with the reconstruction of the territory severally affected by the floods of this year. Naturally, this isn’t an easy task and the support from the local government is mandatory.
There isn’t a word from the authorities yet, but both the Italian premier, Giorgia Meloni, and the vice premier, Matteo Salvini were in the paddock. Apparently, the vice premier talked to those in charge of the two Grand Prix. The opportunities are there, as well as many advantages for everyone involved. But could Monza and Imola make it to the end together?
