Emilia Romagna Grand Prix: Imola Race Weekend Guide

The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola is one of the most atmospheric stops on the F1 calendar. The track sits in the hills near Bologna and Ravenna, and race weekend mixes fast laps with passionate local fans. If you plan to go or watch, this guide gives clear, useful tips so you don’t waste time searching for basics.

What to expect at Imola

Imola is tight and old-school compared with modern circuits. That means close racing, nervous corners and dramatic overtakes. Weekend sessions run like other Grands Prix: practice on Friday, more practice and qualifying on Saturday, and the main race on Sunday. Expect noise, a lively paddock vibe, and lots of Italian food stalls. Bring ear protection — the cars are loud and it’s a long day.

Crowds can be big but spread out. Grandstands offer clear sightlines at key sections like Variante Alta and Rivazza. If you prefer movement, booked general admission lets you walk to different vantage points. Check the daily schedule for support races and autograph sessions so you don’t miss key moments.

Travel, tickets and tips

Where to stay: Bologna is the easiest base. It’s 30–40 minutes by car or shuttle to Imola and has more hotels, trains, and nightlife. Book early—rooms sell fast for F1 weekends. If you want quieter nights, look in Imola town or nearby Faenza.

Getting there: Trains run to Imola station from Bologna. On race days, shuttle buses and park-and-ride options are active. If you drive, arrive early to avoid long queues. Use official parking and keep an eye on local road closures; organizers publish maps before the weekend.

Tickets: Buy from official F1 or circuit sellers to avoid scams. Decide if you want a grandstand seat or general admission. Grandstand gives guaranteed views; general admission gives freedom to explore. If budget matters, single-day tickets can be cheaper than full weekend passes.

Watching at home: Most major sports networks and F1 streaming services carry the race. Check local broadcasters for timing and pre-race shows. For live timing and commentary, the official F1 app is handy and gives lap data and pit-stop info in real time.

Packing list: sun protection, portable charger, cash for small vendors, waterproof layer (weather can change), earplugs, and comfortable shoes for walking. Bring a small daypack — large bags may be restricted.

Local extras: Try regional foods like piadina or fresh pasta after the race. If you have time, visit Bologna’s historic center or Ravenna’s mosaics for a cultural contrast to race noise.

If you’re planning a trip, check the official Imola event page for ticket links, transport maps and timetable updates. Small planning steps now make the weekend smoother and let you focus on the action on track.