Imola president Uberto Selvatico Estense says that should the conditions in Italy improve in the coming months, the circuit is willing to host a Formula 1 race behind closed doors.
After the postponement of the Chinese Grand Prix in February, the circuit was touted as a potential replacement venue after the circuit approached Automobile Club d’Italia president, Angelo Sticchi Damiani.
However, after the situation surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak began to escalate in Italy, the offer fell by the wayside.
As F1 seeks dates for races without spectators, Selvatico Estense says that he would be willing to offer Imola for free later that year, should the government allow for it.
Speaking with Motorsport.com, Selvatico Estense said the venue is willing to host an F1 race, should government rulings allow for it to transpire.
“This situation is an opportunity for us to be a candidate for a grand prix this season. They need some races in order to maintain the contract with the FIA and have a world championship, so why not think about Imola?
“Obviously it depends also on the government rules, if they will allow us to run such a race.
“Of course we’ll offer the track for free, and then talk about costs on our side if possible. We can ask the region for some help. We’re not in the situation where we can pay a promoter’s fee.
“It’s much easier without spectators, we don’t have to take care of the grandstands, we don’t have to take care of things like VIP hospitality and so on. For sure it will be cheaper than a complete organisation. People are already thinking about running football games with closed doors.”
Selvatico Estense is open to any dates but suggests the event could run back-to-back with the Italian GP in Monza, which is still scheduled to take place on September 6.
The Belgian GP currently occupies the desired date, although public gatherings and events in the region have been banned until September 1.
“Maybe it could be easier to organise a back-to-back race with Monza, in order to save money or save time for the teams.
“But last year we even had nice weather in October, and also the first half of November. So we’re not scared about the weather.
“I think people would like to go back to Imola. It’s a dream for us, but we’re still dreaming!”
