F1 confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that after discussions with “the president of the FIA, the competent authorities including relevant ministers, the president of the Automobile Club of Italy, the president of the Emilia Romagna region, cities and promoters”.

F1 said in a statement: “The decision was taken because it was impossible to safely stage events for our fans, teams and our staff, and it is right and responsible given the circumstances facing towns and regions. things. Cities in the region. It is not right to put further pressure on local authorities and emergency services during this difficult time.”

A precautionary order to evacuate the track was issued Tuesday due to the threat of possible flooding on the adjacent Santerno river.

Teams were further directed to avoid the facility on Wednesday, with images showing the TV compound and support paddocks had been breached by water.

Despite the disappointment of not being able to hit the track this weekend, the team and drivers support the decision and will focus on ensuring the safety of residents in the affected areas. A red weather warning for flooding and landslides remained in place over the weekend.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton said: “Hope everyone in Emilia Romagna is staying safe and looking after each other right now.

“My heart goes out to those affected by this tragedy and to the amazing emergency services working on the ground.

“I know we all understand that safety comes first. Can’t wait to see you guys at the next game.”

George Russell, chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association and Hamilton’s team-mate, wrote: “This weekend’s race has been cancelled, sorry for the fans, but the safety of all involved always comes first.

George Russell, Mercedes-AMG

Photography: Carl Bingham/ motorsport pictures

“All the best to all those affected by the floods in Emilia-Romagna and surrounding areas.”

McLaren’s Lando Norris said: “I love racing, but other people’s safety is more important. Sorry to all the fans, we’ll be back, Imola, stay safe.”

Ferrari team principal Fred Vassell said: “On behalf of everyone who works at Ferrari, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”

“Emilia-Romagna is our home and it is heartbreaking to see what people are going through right now.”

Safety ‘must come first’