F1 at Imola: Stefano Domenicali’s Comments Take Everyone by Surprise
Stefano Domenicali’s words have immediately set the Formula 1 world abuzz, especially among those hoping to see a Grand Prix return to Imola. Pressed by Sky Sport commentator Carlo Vanzini after the Hungarian Grand Prix, the F1 CEO (who, incidentally, is originally from Imola) explained that the Qatar Grand Prix, rescheduled for November 29, remains confirmed “until the last minute” in Lusail, while emphasizing, however, that Formula 1 is ready to intervene should the geopolitical situation fail to guarantee the necessary safety standards.
The remark that sparked fans’ imaginations was when Domenicali, with a smile, added: “Will we be speaking Italian? Who knows, we’ll see.” This remark immediately fueled speculation that the Qatar Grand Prix might be held at Imola, following the precedent set by the Bahrain Grand Prix, which in 2026 will be held at Sepang, Malaysia, while retaining its Bahraini name and identity.
The prospect of seeing Imola return to the F1 circuit—and as the penultimate round of the World Championship, no less—has sparked enthusiasm among Italian fans, who, since the expiration in 2025 of the contract linking the circuit dedicated to Enzo and Dino Ferrari to the top open-wheel series, have been hoping for the return of the Romagna track. Furthermore, the idea of a race so crucial to the championship has sparked a pro-Imola movement that has gained momentum on social media and in specialized forums, partly because the Lusail circuit is considered by many to be ill-suited for F1 races.
However, it remains to be seen what will actually happen. The geopolitical situation in Qatar is delicate, and security measures will have to be fully guaranteed. Recent precedents in motorsport paint different scenarios: MotoGP has chosen to move the Qatar Grand Prix from April to November without considering any replacements, while the WEC is ready to replace the 1,812-km Qatar race with a race in Barcelona (in addition to replacing the 8 Hours of Bahrain with a round at Monza).
In this context, Formula 1 is proceeding with caution. The Qatar Grand Prix remains confirmed, but the possibility of an alternative plan exists, and Imola—given its history, infrastructure, and geographic location—would be a credible solution. The final decision will come only once it is clear whether Qatar can guarantee the necessary standards to host teams, staff, and spectators.
Until then, however, the possibility will remain suspended between diplomacy, security, and the dreams of Italian fans, who have wasted no time in voicing their enthusiasm for a return that—even if only hinted at—has already sparked their imagination.
