F1 could be set for a second Italian GP as Imola, Mugello talk up joining Monza

Italian GP

F1 could be set for a second Italian GP

Who wants to see two Italian circuits in F1 again?

Matthew Scott

Saturday 14 September 2019 10:00

Organisers at both Imola and Mugello have expressed an interest in hosting a second Formula 1 race in Italy on the back of Monza securing a five-year deal with Liberty Media.

Monza followed Silverstone in securing a long-term contract in recent weeks, with both historic circuits having previously feared dropping off the schedule amid fears over rising costs.

The Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola has hosted 27 grands prix in the past, although none since 2006 when it hosted the San Marino GP for the 26th and final time.

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"The great work done by ACI president Angelo Sticchi Damiani in maintaining Formula 1 in Italy could reopen the possibility, even at our historic racetrack, to see the red cars and the whole circus return," said circuit president Uberto Selvatico Estense.

"To achieve such a result it is essential to have the full support of regional and metropolitan institutions, as is happening for Monza and Mugello."

The Italian motorcycle Grand Prix has been held at Mugello exclusively since 1994, having previously toured Imola, Monza and Misano too, but the Tuscan track, which is owned by Ferrari, also has eyes on a future F1 bid.

Mugello circuit director Paolo Poli told Ansa: "The first objective will be to renew the agreement with the MotoGP, then in five years we will also think about applying to bring Formula 1 to Tuscany.

"Partnerships will be necessary at national level, as Monza did by signing the agreement with F1 for the next few years.

"It should be remembered that unlike other Italian circuits, Mugello is not state-run.

"From 2006 to 2016 Ferrari has made huge investments to raise the quality of the infrastructure and the professionalism of those who work here, so as to present themselves to customers all over the world with an increasingly higher level."