It had been anticipated, yet the news still resonates: Imola will be replaced by Madrid in the 2026 F1 calendar
Despite numerous challenges, Madrid has made it. For now, at least. The Spanish circuit, which signed a ten-year deal in 2024 securing its place in Formula 1 from 2026 to 2035, has officially been added to the calendar for the upcoming season—despite significant issues surrounding sponsorship and the use of public funds.
The decision has two major implications. Internally, Spain will now host two Grands Prix, with Madrid joining the well-established Barcelona circuit. Externally, with the intention of capping the season at 24 races, a venue had to be cut to make room for the Madrid event. Unfortunately, that sacrifice appears to be Imola.
Money Prevails, and the 2023 Promise Is Broken
The exclusion of Imola comes as a shock. The 2025 Grand Prix recorded a historic attendance, with unprecedented financial backing from both the Italian government and local authorities. Pilots and team principals alike publicly praised the Santerno circuit for its heritage and technical challenges. None of that seems to have mattered.
The decision also carries significant economic consequences. According to Sport e Finanza, the Imola Grand Prix generates around €280 million in regional economic impact, spanning ticket sales, merchandising, hospitality, and related services. Yet, Formula 1 and Liberty Media have opted to prioritize the U.S.—which will host three races for the fourth consecutive year—and even Spain, with the much-criticized Madrid layout.
Adding insult to injury is the broken promise made by Stefano Domenicali and Formula 1 following the cancellation of the 2023 Imola Grand Prix due to the devastating floods that struck Emilia-Romagna.
At the time, Domenicali (an Italian himself, it’s worth noting) and Liberty Media pledged to make up for the lost race “in the year following the end of the contract”—effectively pointing to 2026. And yet…
Photo: Scuderia Ferrari HP
