The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, a highly anticipated event in the Formula One calendar, has been cancelled due to the severe rain and flooding that has struck the northern Italian region. The decision comes after Italy’s civil protection agency issued a red alert weather warning and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini called for the race to be postponed to address the emergency.
Local organizers and Formula One authorities agreed that it would not be safe to proceed with the race. Last year’s event attracted a crowd of 129,000 spectators over the weekend. Although the paddock area of the Imola circuit remained unaffected by flooding, rising water levels and waterlogged surroundings made it impossible to host the race safely.
The cancellation of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix was supported by Ferrari and other teams, highlighting the importance of prioritizing the safety of individuals in the affected areas. This race was supposed to be the first in a series of three consecutive races, followed by Monaco and Spain. It marks the second cancellation of the season, following the earlier cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix in March.
The devastating floods in Italy’s Emilia Romagna region were caused by torrential rain, resulting in widespread destruction. Nearly two dozen rivers overflowed their banks, submerging vast areas and claiming the lives of at least nine people, mainly in Forli and Cesena. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes, while 41 municipalities reported flooding, and numerous landslides occurred.
The agricultural industry in the region has been severely affected, although the full extent of the damage is still being assessed. Distressing television footage showed emergency workers carrying stranded residents through flooded streets, while cars were submerged in water and debris-filled roads in areas where the water had receded.
Read more: Devastating flooding in Italy claims 5 lives as survivors seek refuge on rooftops
Safety Concerns Drive Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Cancellation
The safety concerns prompted the cancellation of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, as the Imola circuit lies in close proximity to the Santerno river. The decision was supported by organizers and local officials who prioritized the well-being of the people in the affected region. Stefano Domenicali, Formula One’s chief executive and a native of Imola, stressed that the safety of the local community must be the primary focus in such challenging circumstances.
