Update | The GP Imola in jeopardy? This is the current situation
- GPblog.com
Italy will host its first continental European Grand Prix of the season next weekend at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit. But for the second time this month, the weather is particularly bad in the Emilia-Romagna region. It begs the question, is the continuation of the race in danger?
Earlier in May, certain streets of Imola were flooded and several people had to be evacuated. For this Tuesday and also tomorrow, code red is again in force in the area and so everyone is strongly advised not to hit the roads. Around 100 millimetres of rain, for instance, is forecast on Tuesday. For Formula 1, the bad weather could be particularly detrimental, as the teams are currently busy setting up in the paddock.
Tifosi don't need to fear
However, a spokesman for the Imola circuit informed GPblog that Formula 1 fans don't need to worry. "Despite the bad weather and given that the weather forecast is improving, the race weekend is not at risk," he said.
However, drivers should seriously consider that next weekend (like last year) awaits a race in wet conditions. For Sunday, the chance of rain is estimated at 80 per cent. Wet spells are also expected on Friday and Saturday. This may jeopardise the pilot for qualifying. However, Pirelli's new rain tyres can be tried in that case.
Update 3:00 pm
The organization says that the Grand Prix will take place. It is possible that there will be some delay in builing the stands and hospitality, because all those present on and around the circuit have been asked to leave. Due to the risk of flooding, the situation is too dangerous.
Journalst Albert Fabrega is already in the area. He posted a video on his Twitter account:
Así está ahora la situación del río que pasa al lado del circuito. Se ha evacuado al personal como precaución.
— Albert Fabrega (@AlbertFabrega) May 16, 2023
This is the situatuon right now of the river next to Imola circuit. The personnel has been evacuated as precaution. #f1 #EmiliaRomagnaGP pic.twitter.com/dflBCQK0ry