The mayor of Imola, Marco Panieri, has stated that the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix ‘is not over’ despite it dropping off the F1 calendar for the 2026 season.

In a statement released on Tuesday, he wrote: “The provisional calendar of Formula 1 Grand Prix for the 2026 season has been announced, from which Imola is excluded,” read a statement signed by Imola mayor Marco Panieri.

“This is news we were aware of and which, understandably, generates questions, disappointment and bitterness, because in recent years our territory has demonstrated its ability to host an extraordinary event with record numbers.

“The grand prix in Imola was one of the most loved and appreciated by fans and drivers, as demonstrated in the days following the event. Its uniqueness was evident: combining the race on the track with the charm of the territory, starting from a historic center to be experienced. However, we want to be very clear: this news does not represent the end of the story.

“We have always been aware of the complexity of the dynamics linked to the calendar, which was complicated from the beginning. The contract signed in 2021, considered by many to be unfeasible at the time, envisaged the stable return of the grand prix to Imola until 2025.

“As the Emilia Romagna Region and the Municipality of Imola, among the promoters of the initiative, we have done everything possible. We have repeatedly underlined the importance and strategic nature of the issue to all the actors involved, with transparency, clarity and full availability for institutional collaboration.”