Imola, situated just outside the republic of San Marino, will forever be associated with the tragic deaths of Roland Ratzenberger and in particular Ayrton Senna in 1994. 

At that point Imola was one of the fastest tracks on the calendar. Tamburello was a high speed left hander which could be taken at over 180 mph. Villeneuve was a right sweeper which led into the Tosa hairpin. After the fatalities of 1994, safety in Formula 1 became a huge factor, especially in track design, and Imola was changed almost beyond recognition. Tamburello was changed to a left-right-left chicane, whilst Villeneuve was also changed to a chicane to reduce speeds.

Imola is now recognised as a low to medium speed track requiring heavy breaking and medium to high levels of downforce. Overtaking opportunities are now limited after the removal of the high speed sections, although it is possible to pass into Tamburello.

2005 saw a thrilling final 20 laps, as Michael Schumacher closed dramatically on Alonso, desperately trying to get past, but without avail.

In recent years Imola has been threatened with removal from the calendar with an ageing track surface and sub-standard pit facilities. Major renovations are expected to take place in time for the 2007 race.

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