The Italian Grand Prix could return to the Imola circuit if a new deal fails to materialise between Monza and Bernie Ecclestone, it’s been reported.
Imola last held a race in 2006 when it hosted the San Marino GP, but following safety concerns and complaints the circuit was in a poor state, it was dropped from the calendar.
However in 2007 it underwent a considerable revamp and in 2011 it was given an FIA Grade 1 licence making it capable of hosting an F1 race once again.
With Monza yet to agree a new deal following failed negotiations over reducing its race fee, Imola officials met with Ecclestone last week in London to propose taking over the Italian GP from 2017 onwards when Monza’s deal ends.
Present at the meeting was the city’s mayor, Daniele Manca, president of Formula Imola, Uberto Selvatico Estense and president of CON.AMI, Stefano Manara.
Ecclestone is reportedly open to the idea of returning to Imola after officials made clear during the meeting that further improvements were planned and could be completed in time for 2017.