Grand Prix d’Emilie-Romagne 2025: Imola, scene of ambitions and uncertainties, the stakes
This weekend, the Imola circuit hosts the seventh round of the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship. After a tour across the Atlantic dominated by McLaren, Europe marks a strategic turning point for the teams, between technical novelties, expected returns and uncertain weather conditions.
Oscar Piastri arrives as the championship leader with a 16-point advantage over his teammate Lando Norris and 32 over Max Verstappen. The Australian driver, winner of four of the last five races, could become the first Australian since Jack Brabham in 1966 to win four consecutive Grand Prix.
The Woking team also dominates the constructors’ standings, with a lead of 105 points over Mercedes.
Ferrari under pressure at home
For Lewis Hamilton, this Grand Prix marks his first race in Italy under the Ferrari colors. After an eighth place finish in Miami, the Briton hopes to bounce back in front of the tifosi. His teammate Charles Leclerc, currently fourth in the championship, is also aiming for a podium on his home turf.
Ferrari, fourth in the constructors’ standings, has only recorded one podium this season, achieved by Leclerc in Jeddah.
Mercedes bets on youth
Kimi Antonelli, 18 years old, will compete in his first Grand Prix at home. Already the author of several precocity records this season, the young Italian is highly anticipated by local fans. Mercedes, second in the constructors’ standings, hopes that the combination of experience and youth will bear fruit.
Red Bull and Aston Martin: crucial developments
Red Bull, currently third in the championship, will introduce technical upgrades at Imola in the hope of closing the gap with McLaren. Max Verstappen, a three-time winner at Imola, is counting on these improvements to restart his season.
Aston Martin, on its side, will bring a new floor and bodywork modifications, initially tested on a single car during free practice. The team, seventh in the standings, hopes to improve its aerodynamics and consistency.
Alpine: Changes Behind the Scenes
Franco Colapinto will make his debut with Alpine, replacing Jack Doohan for the next five races. This change comes after the resignation of team principal Oliver Oakes. Alpine, currently ninth in the standings, is looking to stabilize its structure and climb up the rankings.
Weather conditions and tire strategies
The weather forecasts predict dry and warm conditions, with temperatures around 27°C. However, showers could occur, making the race unpredictable.
Pirelli will introduce for the first time the C6 compound, the softest in its range, alongside the C5 (medium) and C4 (hard). This combination could influence pit stop strategies and offer opportunities for the most daring teams.
A circuit steeped in history
The Imola circuit, 4.909 km long, will host its 32nd Formula 1 race. An iconic venue in motorsport, it has been the scene of tragic moments, such as the deaths of Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger in 1994. This year, the race could be the last at Imola, as the current contract is coming to an end.
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