IMOLA, Italy (AP) - The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, marking the seventh round of the 2025 Formula 1 season, is set to take place at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, Italy. This historic venue is notable for its narrow layout and has been a favorite among drivers for its challenging turns. However, Imola also carries a somber history, particularly the tragic events of the 1994 race weekend, during which beloved three-time F1 champion Ayrton Senna and Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger lost their lives.
Fans eager to catch the action can tune in on ESPN in the U.S. while viewers from other countries can find broadcast information through official Formula 1 channels. The race weekend kicks off with two practice sessions on Friday, followed by a third practice and qualifying on Saturday. The much-anticipated race itself takes place on Sunday, featuring 63 laps around the 4.91-kilometer (3.05-mile) circuit, starting at 9 a.m. ET (1300 GMT).
This year's Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix is significant as it represents the only F1 race in Italy other than the Italian Grand Prix held at Monza in September. As the Imola circuit enters the final year of its current contract, it becomes essential for organizers to ensure an exciting event for fans and participants alike.
In the lead-up to this race, Oscar Piastri, a prominent driver for McLaren, has shown exceptional performance, having secured three consecutive wins, including his latest victory at the Miami Grand Prix. His teammate, Lando Norris, has also been competitive, taking important points by winning the sprint race ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. With this victory in Miami, Piastri solidified his lead in the championship standings, marking his sixth career win and overtaking Norris's tally of five victories, despite being in his third season compared to Norris's seventh.
The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix also introduces additional storylines, such as the return of Franco Colapinto, who has joined the Alpine team as a mid-season replacement for Pierre Gasly. Colapinto previously made an appearance last year with Williams and is eager to demonstrate his capabilities on the track as he prepares for his first race back in Italy since his career's commencement.
Key statistics are shaping the narrative ahead of the race: Piastri is on the verge of achieving a historic fourth consecutive win, a feat last accomplished by the legendary Jack Brabham in 1966. Meanwhile, Colapinto's second mid-season replacement signifies a trend in the competitive F1 landscape where driver changes can significantly impact team performance and race strategies.
In their own words, Piastri expresses confidence and momentum leading into the European leg of the racing schedule, stating, "I've got good momentum behind me and I'm extremely focused." Colapinto, reflecting on his first race week back, shares his gratitude for the opportunity and recognizes the challenge of getting up to speed quickly in a highly competitive environment.
As the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix approaches, anticipation builds among fans and teams alike, setting the stage for potential drama and excitement on the iconic Imola circuit.
