Featured Image Credit: Alamy
Topics: Formula 1
Nasir Jabbar
The Formula 1 have decided NOT to proceed with this weekend's Grand Prix in Imola after flooding concerns.
It comes after the region has been subjected to heavy rain, with F1 employees advised not to travel to the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix circuit.
The Santerno river next to the circuit is running high and the area has been given a maximum red weather warning.
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The paddock has avoided any damage, but some of the facilities at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari are flooded.
F1 took to social media to share an update on this weekend's race.
"The Formula 1 community wants to send its thoughts to the people and communities affected by the recent events 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," the statement reads.
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"Following discussions between Formula 1, the President of FIA, the competent authorities including relevant Ministers, 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 this weekend in Imola.
"The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event for our fans, the team 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 the local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time."
The Imola Grand Prix had been scheduled to be the sixth race of the season and was the first of three events on consecutive weekends.
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Due to the intense schedule, it is unlikely the F1 will return as they explore their options ahead of making an official decision.
The cancellation of Imola means that the schedule will be reduced to 22 races, preventing plans for a record 23-race calendar in 2023.