F1 news LIVE: Lewis Hamilton looks ahead to Monaco Grand Prix after Imola cancellation
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground. We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision. We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race [in Monaco].”
F1 NEWS AND UPDATES - EMILIA ROMAGNA GP CANCELLED
F1 has cancelled this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix due to adverse weather
COMMENT: Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
F1 bosses explain why the race at Imola has been cancelled
Lewis Hamilton responds to Imola cancellation: ‘Safety comes first'
The next race of the 2023 season will be the Monaco Grand Prix (26-28 May)
When is the Monaco Grand Prix?
12:57 , Kieran Jackson
The sixth race weekend of the 2023 season, the Monaco Grand Prix, takes place from Friday 26 May - Sunday 28 May.
The schedule is as follows: first practice takes place at 12:30pm (BST) with FP2 at 4pm.
On Saturday, third practice takes place at 11:30am before qualifying at 3pm (BST).
The race on Sunday has a start time of 2pm (BST).
Lewis Hamilton reacts after Imola race cancelled
12:34 , Kieran Jackson
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
It is the second F1 race to be cancelled on the eve of the event after the 2020 Australian Grand Prix was called off when a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground. We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision.
“We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Yuki Tsunoda reveals effects of flooding on nearby town of Faenza, where he lives:
12:01 , Kieran Jackson
“After a horrible night the town (Faenza) is heavily impacted: dust, mud, and the smell of gasoline everywhere,” the Japanese driver posted on social media on Wednesday.
“Currently people are struggling to find food and especially places to stay, after many have been evacuated from their own homes.” AlphaTauri said its own factory had not been affected by the floods and “everything is being done to ensure the safety of our employees and their families.” The team and both of its drivers issued appeals for donations to help people affected by the floods.
Constructors’ Championship ahead of Monaco GP
11:31 , Kieran Jackson
1) Red Bull - 224 points
2) Aston Martin - 102 points
3) Mercedes - 96 points
4) Ferrari - 78 points
5) McLaren - 14 points
6) Alpine - 14 points
7) Haas - 8 points
8) Alfa Romeo - 6 points
9) AlphaTauri - 2 points
10) Williams - 1 point
Lando Norris reacts to Emilia Romagna Grand Prix cancellation
11:11 , Kieran Jackson
I love racing, but the safety of everyone else is more important. Sorry to all the fans, we’ll be back Imola, stay safe 🇮🇹❤️
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) May 17, 2023
F1 makes historic broadcast move for Monaco Grand Prix
10:44 , Kieran Jackson
Formula 1 will produce the television coverage of the Monaco Grand Prix next week – ending a longstanding grip on the event from local broadcasters.
F1 produces the world feed for every race on the calendar, with Monaco previously being the anomaly among a season of 22 races in 2023 – a figure which has dropped from 23 after Imola’s cancellation this weekend due to flooding in the Emilia Romagna region.
Local TV station Tele Monte Carlo had been the producers of one of the sport’s most famous races, but F1 will now control the broadcasting of the event, including the world feed.
More info below:
F1 makes historic broadcast move for Monaco Grand Prix
Driver Standings ahead of Monaco...
10:17 , Kieran Jackson
1) Max Verstappen - 119 points
2) Sergio Perez - 105 points
3) Fernando Alonso - 75 points
4) Lewis Hamilton - 56 points
5) Carlos Sainz - 44 points
6) George Russell - 40 points
7) Charles Leclerc - 34 points
8) Lance Stroll - 27 points
9) Lando Norris - 10 points
10) Pierre Gasly - 8 points
11) Nico Hulkenberg - 6 points
12) Esteban Ocon - 6 points
13) Valtteri Bottas - 4 points
14) Oscar Piastri - 4 points
15) Zhou Guanyu - 2 points
16) Yuki Tsunoda - 2 points
17) Kevin Magnussen - 2 points
18) Alex Albon - 1 point
19) Logan Sargeant - 0 points
20) Nyck de Vries - 0 points
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
09:58 , Kieran Jackson
Comment by Kieran Jackson
They’ve been talking about it for weeks. In fact since the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix at the beginning of March, Mercedes have pinpointed this weekend in Imola as a new beginning not only this season, but in this new phase of ground-effect regulations first brought in last year.
Toto Wolff has made no secret of F1’s return to traditional European circuits as marking a line in the sand for his team’s prospects in 2023, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell waiting eagerly in the cockpit to see how far they can reduce the hefty gap – 128 points in the constructors’ standings – to Red Bull out in front.
News on Wednesday then of the cancellation of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix comes as a bitter blow to their development plans. In the wider scheme of things, though, Mercedes’ fortunes are very much not a priority.
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Nyck De Vries blocked from reaching hotel after floods cause landslide
09:37 , Kieran Jackson
Some pretty eye-opening footage from Nyck de Vries, as he attempted to make his way to Emilia Romagna...
Will Emilia Romagna Grand Prix be rescheduled?
09:19 , Kieran Jackson
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has been cancelled, and sources close to Formula One state that, amid the packed 2023 calendar, it is unlikely the race will be rescheduled this year.
F1 staff were told to stay away from the race circuit in the build up to the race, with the struggling area struggling to cope with the weather and rain forecast to continue.
The surrounding region has been badly affected by torrential rain in the lead up to the Grand Prix, which saw the paddock at the circuit evacuated on Tuesday because of the risk of flooding.
More below:
Will Imola Grand Prix be rescheduled?
When is the Monaco Grand Prix?
08:53 , Kieran Jackson
The sixth race weekend of the 2023 season, the Monaco Grand Prix, takes place from Friday 26 May - Sunday 28 May.
The schedule is as follows: first practice takes place at 12:30pm (BST) with FP2 at 4pm.
On Saturday, third practice takes place at 11:30am before qualifying at 3pm (BST).
The race on Sunday has a start time of 2pm (BST).
Lewis Hamilton reacts after Imola race cancelled
08:37 , Kieran Jackson
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
It is the second F1 race to be cancelled on the eve of the event after the 2020 Australian Grand Prix was called off when a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground. We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision.
“We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Thursday 18 May 2023 19:30 , Kieran Jackson
Comment by Kieran Jackson
They’ve been talking about it for weeks. In fact since the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix at the beginning of March, Mercedes have pinpointed this weekend in Imola as a new beginning not only this season, but in this new phase of ground-effect regulations first brought in last year.
Toto Wolff has made no secret of F1’s return to traditional European circuits as marking a line in the sand for his team’s prospects in 2023, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell waiting eagerly in the cockpit to see how far they can reduce the hefty gap – 128 points in the constructors’ standings – to Red Bull out in front.
News on Wednesday then of the cancellation of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix comes as a bitter blow to their development plans. In the wider scheme of things, though, Mercedes’ fortunes are very much not a priority.
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Will Emilia Romagna Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Thursday 18 May 2023 18:34 , Kieran Jackson
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has been cancelled, and sources close to Formula One state that, amid the packed 2023 calendar, it is unlikely the race will be rescheduled this year.
F1 staff were told to stay away from the race circuit in the build up to the race, with the struggling area struggling to cope with the weather and rain forecast to continue.
The surrounding region has been badly affected by torrential rain in the lead up to the Grand Prix, which saw the paddock at the circuit evacuated on Tuesday because of the risk of flooding.
More below:
Will Imola Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Lewis Hamilton reacts after Imola race cancelled
Thursday 18 May 2023 18:01 , Kieran Jackson
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
It is the second F1 race to be cancelled on the eve of the event after the 2020 Australian Grand Prix was called off when a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground. We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision.
“We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Watch: Flooding near Imola prompts cancellation of Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Thursday 18 May 2023 17:41 , Kieran Jackson
Flood water outside Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Wednesday, 17 May, has prompted the cancellation of the F1 race this weekend.
Earlier in the day, teams and personnel preparing for the weekend’s race were told to evacuate the track due to the extreme weather conditions.
Italian authorities have placed the Emilia Romagna region under a red warning due heavy rain and rising levels of the Santerno river.
In a statement, F1 said: “The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event.”
Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Thursday 18 May 2023 17:02 , Kieran Jackson
Comment by Kieran Jackson
They’ve been talking about it for weeks. In fact since the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix at the beginning of March, Mercedes have pinpointed this weekend in Imola as a new beginning not only this season, but in this new phase of ground-effect regulations first brought in last year.
Toto Wolff has made no secret of F1’s return to traditional European circuits as marking a line in the sand for his team’s prospects in 2023, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell waiting eagerly in the cockpit to see how far they can reduce the hefty gap – 128 points in the constructors’ standings – to Red Bull out in front.
News on Wednesday then of the cancellation of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix comes as a bitter blow to their development plans. In the wider scheme of things, though, Mercedes’ fortunes are very much not a priority.
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Lando Norris reacts to Emilia Romagna Grand Prix cancellation
Thursday 18 May 2023 16:39 , Kieran Jackson
I love racing, but the safety of everyone else is more important. Sorry to all the fans, we’ll be back Imola, stay safe 🇮🇹❤️
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) May 17, 2023
Nyck De Vries blocked from reaching hotel after floods cause landslide
Thursday 18 May 2023 16:04 , Kieran Jackson
Some pretty eye-opening footage from Nyck de Vries, as he attempted to make his way to Emilia Romagna...
Will Emilia Romagna Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Thursday 18 May 2023 15:33 , Kieran Jackson
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has been cancelled, and sources close to Formula One state that, amid the packed 2023 calendar, it is unlikely the race will be rescheduled this year.
F1 staff were told to stay away from the race circuit in the build up to the race, with the struggling area struggling to cope with the weather and rain forecast to continue.
The surrounding region has been badly affected by torrential rain in the lead up to the Grand Prix, which saw the paddock at the circuit evacuated on Tuesday because of the risk of flooding.
More below:
Will Imola Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Max Verstappen supports decision to cancel Grand Prix at Imola
Thursday 18 May 2023 15:02 , Kieran Jackson
Max Verstappen, who currently holds a 14 point lead over teammate Sergio Perez in the Drivers’ Championship standings, released a statement in support of the cancellation, sending his thoughts to those impacted by severe flooding in Emilia -Romagna.
Statement: 2023 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Our thoughts are with all those affected in the greater Emilia Romagna region.
Stay safe 🙏#ImolaGP pic.twitter.com/yr5y7tUQxw— Max Verstappen (@VerstappenCOM) May 17, 2023
Lewis Hamilton reacts after Imola race cancelled
Thursday 18 May 2023 14:30 , Kieran Jackson
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
It is the second F1 race to be cancelled on the eve of the event after the 2020 Australian Grand Prix was called off when a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground. We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision.
“We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Watch: Flooding near Imola prompts cancellation of Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Thursday 18 May 2023 13:52 , Kieran Jackson
Flood water outside Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Wednesday, 17 May, has prompted the cancellation of the F1 race this weekend.
Earlier in the day, teams and personnel preparing for the weekend’s race were told to evacuate the track due to the extreme weather conditions.
Italian authorities have placed the Emilia Romagna region under a red warning due heavy rain and rising levels of the Santerno river.
In a statement, F1 said: “The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event.”
Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Thursday 18 May 2023 13:15 , Kieran Jackson
Comment by Kieran Jackson
They’ve been talking about it for weeks. In fact since the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix at the beginning of March, Mercedes have pinpointed this weekend in Imola as a new beginning not only this season, but in this new phase of ground-effect regulations first brought in last year.
Toto Wolff has made no secret of F1’s return to traditional European circuits as marking a line in the sand for his team’s prospects in 2023, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell waiting eagerly in the cockpit to see how far they can reduce the hefty gap – 128 points in the constructors’ standings – to Red Bull out in front.
News on Wednesday then of the cancellation of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix comes as a bitter blow to their development plans. In the wider scheme of things, though, Mercedes’ fortunes are very much not a priority.
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Yuki Tsunoda reveals effects of flooding on nearby town of Faenza, where he lives:
Thursday 18 May 2023 12:46 , Kieran Jackson
“After a horrible night the town (Faenza) is heavily impacted: dust, mud, and the smell of gasoline everywhere,” the Japanese driver posted on social media on Wednesday.
“Currently people are struggling to find food and especially places to stay, after many have been evacuated from their own homes.”AlphaTauri said its own factory had not been affected by the floods and “everything is being done to ensure the safety of our employees and their families.” The team and both of its drivers issued appeals for donations to help people affected by the floods.
Weather forecast for Monaco is pretty gloomy!
Thursday 18 May 2023 12:24 , Kieran Jackson
The race weekend starts next Friday.
Lando Norris reacts to Emilia Romagna Grand Prix cancellation
Thursday 18 May 2023 11:59 , Kieran Jackson
I love racing, but the safety of everyone else is more important. Sorry to all the fans, we’ll be back Imola, stay safe 🇮🇹❤️
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) May 17, 2023
Will Emilia Romagna Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Thursday 18 May 2023 11:44 , Kieran Jackson
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has been cancelled, and sources close to Formula One state that, amid the packed 2023 calendar, it is unlikely the race will be rescheduled this year.
F1 staff were told to stay away from the race circuit in the build up to the race, with the struggling area struggling to cope with the weather and rain forecast to continue.
The surrounding region has been badly affected by torrential rain in the lead up to the Grand Prix, which saw the paddock at the circuit evacuated on Tuesday because of the risk of flooding.
Will Imola Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Max Verstappen supports decision to cancel Grand Prix at Imola
Thursday 18 May 2023 11:26 , Kieran Jackson
Max Verstappen, who currently holds a 14 point lead over teammate Sergio Perez in the Drivers’ Championship standings, released a statement in support of the cancellation, sending his thoughts to those impacted by severe flooding in Emilia -Romagna.
Statement: 2023 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Our thoughts are with all those affected in the greater Emilia Romagna region.
Stay safe 🙏#ImolaGP pic.twitter.com/yr5y7tUQxw— Max Verstappen (@VerstappenCOM) May 17, 2023
McLaren boss Zak Brown insists only one new F1 team in last decade has been ‘credible’
Thursday 18 May 2023 11:02 , Kieran Jackson
McLaren’s Zak Brown believes there has only been one “credible” bid in the last decade from teams looking to enter the Formula 1 grid - from Guenther Steiner’s Haas team.
In January, the FIA officially launched an application process for prospective F1 teams and it has now moved into the formal application stage.
Several parties have reportedly declared interest in putting themselves on the grid in the future. The deadline for formal applications was 15 May, with the FIA planning to make a decision on those prospective teams by 30 June.
“I think it’s exciting,” Brown said in Miami, of new teams potentially joining the grid.
Full quotes below:
McLaren CEO Zak Brown insists only one new F1 team in last decade has been ‘credible’
Nyck De Vries blocked from reaching hotel after floods cause landslide
Thursday 18 May 2023 10:45 , Kieran Jackson
Some pretty eye-opening footage from Nyck de Vries, as he attempted to make his way to Emilia Romagna...
Sergio Perez sends his best wishes to the people of Emilia Romagna
Thursday 18 May 2023 10:22 , Kieran Jackson
All my thoughts and prays with
the people in the Italian region
of Emilia Romagna 🇮🇹
We’re not racing there this weekend,
but hopefully we can get back soon.
Please stay safe!
Tutti i miei pensieri e preghiere
con le persone nella regione
italiana dell'Emilia Romagna.… https://t.co/X8C2Wsf04C— Sergio Pérez (@SChecoPerez) May 17, 2023
Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Thursday 18 May 2023 10:00 , Kieran Jackson
Comment by Kieran Jackson
They’ve been talking about it for weeks. In fact since the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix at the beginning of March, Mercedes have pinpointed this weekend in Imola as a new beginning not only this season, but in this new phase of ground-effect regulations first brought in last year.
Toto Wolff has made no secret of F1’s return to traditional European circuits as marking a line in the sand for his team’s prospects in 2023, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell waiting eagerly in the cockpit to see how far they can reduce the hefty gap – 128 points in the constructors’ standings – to Red Bull out in front.
News on Wednesday then of the cancellation of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix comes as a bitter blow to their development plans. In the wider scheme of things, though, Mercedes’ fortunes are very much not a priority.
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Five dead and thousands evacuated as Italy hit by devastating floods
Thursday 18 May 2023 09:44 , Kieran Jackson
At least five people have died and thousands have been evacuated after northern Italy was hit by devastating floods overnight, officials have confirmed.
Authorities also warned that the rainfall is “not over” and urged people to get to higher ground amid fears that rain-swollen rivers would again burst their banks.
The Emilia-Romagna region of the southern European country was hit particularly hard, forcing the evacuation of 24 towns after 14 rivers burst their banks.
Oliver Pritchard-Jones reports:
Five dead and thousands evacuated as Italy hit by devastating floods
Watch: Flooding near Imola prompts cancellation of Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Thursday 18 May 2023 09:28 , Kieran Jackson
Flood water outside Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Wednesday, 17 May, has prompted the cancellation of the F1 race this weekend.
Earlier in the day, teams and personnel preparing for the weekend’s race were told to evacuate the track due to the extreme weather conditions.
Italian authorities have placed the Emilia Romagna region under a red warning due heavy rain and rising levels of the Santerno river.
In a statement, F1 said: “The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event.”
Lewis Hamilton reacts after Imola race cancelled
Thursday 18 May 2023 09:15 , Kieran Jackson
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
It is the second F1 race to be cancelled on the eve of the event after the 2020 Australian Grand Prix was called off when a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground.
“We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision.
“We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Wednesday 17 May 2023 17:13 , Kieran Jackson
Comment by Kieran Jackson
They’ve been talking about it for weeks. In fact since the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix at the beginning of March, Mercedes have pinpointed this weekend in Imola as a new beginning not only this season, but in this new phase of ground-effect regulations first brought in last year.
Toto Wolff has made no secret of F1’s return to traditional European circuits as marking a line in the sand for his team’s prospects in 2023, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell waiting eagerly in the cockpit to see how far they can reduce the hefty gap – 128 points in the constructors’ standings – to Red Bull out in front.
News on Wednesday then of the cancellation of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix comes as a bitter blow to their development plans. In the wider scheme of things, though, Mercedes’ fortunes are very much not a priority.
Why Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are the biggest losers from Imola cancellation
Lewis Hamilton reacts after Imola race cancelled
Wednesday 17 May 2023 16:20 , Jamie Braidwood
Lewis Hamilton said the right decision has been taken to cancel this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix amid severe flooding in the region.
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali took the decision to call off the sixth round of the season in northern Italy following an emergency meeting with local authorities and race officials on Wednesday.
It is the second F1 race to be cancelled on the eve of the event after the 2020 Australian Grand Prix was called off when a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” said Hamilton, who was deeply critical of F1’s decision to travel to Melbourne amid the outbreak of the global pandemic three years ago.
“Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground.
“We were getting ramped up for the weekend and excited to get going but this is definitely the right decision.
“We wish we could be racing. But I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Lewis Hamilton insists right decision is made as Emilia Romagna GP cancelled
F1 schedule this weekend
Wednesday 17 May 2023 15:05 , Kieran Jackson
The sixth race weekend of the 2023 season, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, was due to take place from Friday 19 May - Sunday 21 May before its cancellation today.
The schedule was as follows: first practice at 12:30pm (BST) with FP2 at 4pm.
On Saturday, third practice at 11:30am before qualifying at 3pm (BST).
The race on Sunday had a start time of 2pm (BST).
Watch: Flooding near Imola prompts cancellation of Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Wednesday 17 May 2023 14:41 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Flood water outside Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Wednesday, 17 May, has prompted the cancellation of the F1 race this weekend.
Earlier in the day, teams and personnel preparing for the weekend’s race were told to evacuate the track due to the extreme weather conditions.
Italian authorities have placed the Emilia Romagna region under a red warning due heavy rain and rising levels of the Santerno river.
In a statement, F1 said: “The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event.”
Five dead and thousands evacuated as Italy hit by devastating floods
Wednesday 17 May 2023 14:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle
At least five people have died and thousands have been evacuated after northern Italy was hit by devastating floods overnight, officials have confirmed.
Authorities also warned that the rainfall is “not over” and urged people to get to higher ground amid fears that rain-swollen rivers would again burst their banks.
The Emilia-Romagna region of the southern European country was hit particularly hard, forcing the evacuation of 24 towns after 14 rivers burst their banks.
Oliver Pritchard-Jones reports:
Five dead and thousands evacuated as Italy hit by devastating floods
Where is Emilia Romagna in Italy?
Wednesday 17 May 2023 14:21 , Kieran Jackson
Emilia Romagna is one of the 20 administrative regions of Italy, situated in the north of the country.
Its capital is Bologna and it has an area of 8,666 sq mi, and about 4.4 million inhabitants.
It consists of nine provinces and nearly half of the region (48%) consists of plains while 27% is hilly and 25% mountainous.
Italian authorities had issued flood and landslide warnings as the rising level of water in the Santerno river, which runs close to the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, threatened the circuit.
Full Formula 1 statement after Grand Prix in Imola cancelled due to flooding
Wednesday 17 May 2023 14:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
“The Formula 1 community wants to sends its thoughts to the people and communities affected by the recent evcents in the Emilia-Romagna region. We also want to pay tribute to the work of the emergency services who are doing everything they can to help those in need.
“Following discussions between Formula 1, the president of the FIA, the competent authorities including the relevant minsisters, the president of the Automobile Club of Italy, the president of Emilia-Romagna region, the mayor of the city and the promoter, the decision has been taken not to proceed with the Grand Prix weekend in Imola.
“The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event for our fans, the teams and our personnel and it is the right and responsible thing to do given the situation faced by the towns and cities in the region. It would not be right to put further pressure on hte local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time.”
Lewis Hamilton says ‘safety comes first’ after cancellation of Grand Prix at Imola
Wednesday 17 May 2023 14:04 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Lewis Hamilton has posted on Instagram this afternoon after news of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix’s cancellation.
“Hoping everyone in Emilia Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now,” the Mercedes driver said. “Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground.
“I know we all understand that safety comes first. I can’t wait to see you all at the next race.”
Could Imola remain on the F1 calendar in 2026?
Wednesday 17 May 2023 13:41 , Harry Latham-Coyle
We know that Formula 1 will be coming to Imola in both 2024 and 2025, but the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari does not have an agreement to host a race beyond that. It may be that a deal is agreed to keep a place so cherished within motorsport on the itinerary, but if a deal is not possible, it appears officials may ask F1 owners Liberty Media to hold a race in Emilia-Romagna in 2026 - confirming that the race will not be rescheduled this year, Angelo Sticchi Damiani, president of the Automobile Club d’Italia, has suggested as much to Italian outlet TuttoSport.
Unveiling of Mercedes upgrades delayed
Wednesday 17 May 2023 13:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Of course, this weekend was supposed to mark the unveiling of the first upgrades to the Mercedes car that the team hopes might be able to close the gap to runaway early-season leaders Red Bull. Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have just one podium finish between them this season and would have hoped to challenge at Imola, but will now have to wait until Monaco to see if the “first step” in the W14’s development will make a difference.
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) May 17, 2023
McLaren pair send messages of support to Emilia-Romagna
Wednesday 17 May 2023 13:17 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norries have sent their best wishes to everyone impacted by the extreme weather in the Italian region, where five people have died in flooding and thousands displaced from their homes.
I love racing, but the safety of everyone else is more important. Sorry to all the fans, we’ll be back Imola, stay safe 🇮🇹❤️
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) May 17, 2023
F1 CEO releases statement after cancellation of Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix
Wednesday 17 May 2023 13:06 , Harry Latham-Coyle
“It is such a tragedy to see what has happened to Imola and Emilia-Romagna, the town and region that I grew up in, and my thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding and the families and communities affected,” Stefano Domencali, president and chief executive of Formula 1, has said.
“I want to express my gratitude and admiration for the incredible emergency services who are working tirelessly to help those who need help and alleviate the situation – they are heroes and the whole of Italy is proud of them.
“The decision that has been taken is the right one for everyone in the local communities and the F1 family as we need to ensure safety and not create extra burden for the authorities while they deal with this very awful situation.”
Max Verstappen supports decision to cancel Grand Prix at Imola
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:56 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Max Verstappen, who currently holds a 14 point lead over teammate Sergio Perez in the Drivers’ Championship standings, has released a statement in support of the cancellation, sending his thoughts to those impacted by severe flooding in Emilia -Romagna.
Statement: 2023 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
Our thoughts are with all those affected in the greater Emilia Romagna region.
Stay safe 🙏#ImolaGP pic.twitter.com/yr5y7tUQxw— Max Verstappen (@VerstappenCOM) May 17, 2023
Will Imola Grand Prix be rescheduled?
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:44 , Harry Latham-Coyle
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has been cancelled, and sources close to Formula One state that, amid the packed 2023 calendar, it is unlikely the race will be rescheduled this year.
F1 staff were told to stay away from the race circuit in the build up to the race, with the struggling area struggling to cope with the weather and rain forecast to continue.
The surrounding region has been badly affected by torrential rain in the lead up to the Grand Prix, which saw the paddock at the circuit evacuated on Tuesday because of the risk of flooding.
Kieran Jackson, Formula 1 correspondent for The Independent, reports:
Will Imola Grand Prix be rescheduled?
What race is next on the F1 calendar after Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix cancelled?
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
This weekend’s race in Imola had been due to kick off the first triple-header of the 2023 season, with trips to Monaco and Barcelona due to follow on the next two weekends.
ROUND 7 - MONACO
Circuit de Monaco - 26-28 May
ROUND 8 - SPAIN
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya - 2-4 June
ROUND 9 - CANADA
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal - 16-18 June
ROUND 10 - AUSTRIA (sprint weekend)
Red Bull Ring, Spielberg - 30 June-2 July
ROUND 11 - GREAT BRITAIN
Silverstone Circuit - 7-9 July
ROUND 12 - HUNGARY
Hungaroring, Budapest - 21-23 July
ROUND 13 - BELGIUM (sprint weekend)
Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps - 28-30 July
ROUND 14 - NETHERLANDS
Circuit Zandvoort - 25-27 August
ROUND 15 - ITALY
Monza Circuit - 1-3 September
ROUND 16 - SINGAPORE
Marina Bay Street Circuit - 15-17 September
ROUND 17 - JAPAN
Suzuka International Racing Course - 22-24 September
ROUND 18 - QATAR (sprint weekend)
Lusail International Circuit, Lusail - 6-8 October
ROUND 19 - UNITED STATES (sprint weekend)
Circuit of the Americas, Austin - 20-22 October
ROUND 20 - MEXICO
Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City - 27-29 October
ROUND 21 - BRAZIL (sprint weekend)
Interlagos Circuit, Sao Paulo - 3-5 November
ROUND 22 - LAS VEGAS
Las Vegas Street Circuit - 16-18 November
Watch: Flood waters rage outside Imola Grand Prix circuit as F1 race cancelled
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:27 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Flood water outside Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on Wednesday, 17 May, has prompted the cancellation of the F1 race this weekend.
Earlier in the day, teams and personnel preparing for the weekend’s race were told to evacuate the track due to the extreme weather conditions.
Italian authorities have placed the Emilia Romagna region under a red warning due heavy rain and rising levels of the Santerno river.
In a statement, F1 said: “The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event.
Full Formula 1 statement after Grand Prix in Imola cancelled due to flooding
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:24 , Harry Latham-Coyle
“The Formula 1 community wants to sends its thoughts to the people and communities affected by the recent evcents in the Emilia-Romagna region. We also want to pay tribute to the work of the emergency services who are doing everything they can to help those in need.
“Following discussions between Formula 1, the president of the FIA, the competent authorities including the relevant minsisters, the president of the Automobile Club of Italy, the president of Emilia-Romagna region, the mayor of the city and the promoter, the decision has been taken not to proceed with the Grand Prix weekend in Imola.
“The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event for our fans, the teams and our personnel and it is the right and responsible thing to do given the situation faced by the towns and cities in the region. It would not be right to put further pressure on hte local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time.”
The decision has been taken not to proceed with the Grand Prix weekend in Imola#EmiliaRomagnaGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/4taauGnFEA
— Formula 1 (@F1) May 17, 2023
F1 Imola Grand Prix cancelled
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:18 , Harry Latham-Coyle
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend has been cancelled due to adverse weather in the region, Formula 1 confirmed on Wednesday.
The race at Imola, due to be round six of the 2023 F1 season, will now not take place due to flooding in the area and the risk of further downpours over the coming days.
Persistent rain in the region saw the paddock at the circuit in northern Italy evacuated on Tuesday because of the risk of flooding – with teams and media told to stay away from the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari on Wednesday.
Imola Grand Prix cancelled: Emilia Romagna hit with major flooding
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:16 , Harry Latham-Coyle
It should also be noted that more thundery showers were forecast throughout the remainder of Wednesday, with further rain also due to come in over the weekend. F1 personnel were ordered to leave Imola on Tuesday as a precautionary measure. Although parts of the circuit were flooded, the paddock itself was not, but the Santerno river next to the circuit has been running very, very high.
Imola Grand Prix cancelled: Emilia Romagna hit with major flooding
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:11 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Just hours before official news of the race’s cancellation, Italy’s deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini (who also serves as the country’s transport minister) had said that he belived the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix should be called off. Salvini said that it was “imperative to concentrate all efforts on coping with the emergency”, with flooding already having displaced around 5,000 people from their homes.
Imola Grand Prix cancelled: Emilia Romagna hit with major flooding
Wednesday 17 May 2023 12:07 , Harry Latham-Coyle
An understandable decision from Formula 1, with the sixth race of the year (and kick-off to the season’s first triple header) unable to go ahead amid warnings of flooding and landslides from Italian officials.
Our thoughts and sympathies are with the people of Emilia-Romagna and Marche as they deal with the destruction caused by the heavy rain and flooding currently affecting the area.
— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) May 17, 2023
Imola Grand Prix cancelled: Emilia Romagna hit with major flooding
Wednesday 17 May 2023 11:42 , Jack Rathborn
Formula 1 has opted to cancel this weekend’s Imola Grand Prix after heavy flooding in the Emilia Romagna area.
