Who are you/ your role: Olivia - Operations Executive 

Your trip: Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – May 2025, Bologna 

What was your favourite part of Imola?

One of the standout aspects of my visit to Bologna was exploring its historic city centre, particularly the area around Piazza Maggiore. The blend of medieval architecture, vibrant street life, and rich cultural atmosphere made it an unforgettable experience. Walking beneath the iconic porticoes, with their warm terracotta tones and centuries-old charm, offered a unique perspective on the city’s heritage. The local cuisine also deserves a special mention — While Bologna has a lot to offer, my favourite part of the trip was undoubtedly the food — and more specifically, a memorable meal where I had a trio of traditional Bolognese pastas. If you can’t pick just one, why not have three? The tasting included Gramigna al ragù, tortellini with butter and sage, and lasagne verdi — each one showcasing the depth and pride of Bolognese culinary tradition. Sitting in a cosy local trattoria, surrounded by the buzz of conversation and the warm hospitality typical of the region, it was a perfect way to experience the heart of Bologna.

What was your favourite part of the trip?

Although the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix was the focus of the trip, my favourite part was heading into Imola town on the Sunday morning before the race. The atmosphere was electric — a mix of excitement, tradition, and local pride that you could feel in the air. Walking through the town’s narrow streets, with fans from all over the world filling cafés and piazzas, gave me a real sense of how deeply motorsport is woven into the fabric of the region. It was a great contrast to the high-energy environment of the circuit itself — quieter, more intimate, and full of character. That morning captured the spirit of the weekend perfectly.

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How was the race?

The atmosphere at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari is truly something special. Experiencing a race weekend there was nothing short of exhilarating — a seamless blend of the circuit’s rich heritage and the modern spectacle of Formula 1. Renowned for its technical, unforgiving layout and the fervent passion of Italian fans, Imola provides an unforgettable backdrop for high-octane action. From the roar of engines echoing through the hills to the electric buzz in the grandstands, every moment felt steeped in racing history and raw excitement.
 

The race was marked by a bold move from Max Verstappen on the opening lap, overtaking pole-sitter Oscar Piastri at the Tamburello chicane. Verstappen’s bold move early in the race set the tone for an intense and closely fought Grand Prix. He managed to hold onto the lead under pressure and went on to claim his 65th career win. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri rounded out the podium, with Norris making the most of a late-race advantage on fresher tyres to secure second place.

For Ferrari fans, the weekend at Imola was a rollercoaster of hope and frustration. The home crowd was as vocal as ever, passionately cheering on Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Yet, despite the energy from the tifosi, the team’s performance ultimately fell short of expectations. Both drivers showed glimpses of pace, but inconsistency and strategic missteps hampered their ability to challenge for the podium — a bitter pill to swallow on home soil.

For Lewis Hamilton, the 2025 season marked a new chapter as he debuted with Ferrari after a legendary career at Mercedes. In his first race in Italy with the Scuderia, Hamilton delivered a statement drive. Starting 12th on the grid, he battled through the field with trademark determination to finish 4th, showcasing his adaptability and experience in a brand-new environment. It was a performance that signalled promise, even if it didn’t yet deliver the fairytale result the fans had hoped for.

The atmosphere at Imola was electric — a true festival of motorsport. Fans from across the globe packed the grandstands, creating an international buzz that resonated throughout the weekend. With its legendary corners, undulating terrain, and rich racing heritage, the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari proved once again why it remains one of Formula 1’s most iconic venues — and a bucket-list destination for any motorsport enthusiast.

What would you recommend doing in Imola?

As a self-confessed foodie, my top recommendation is simple: eat everything you can. Bologna isn’t called La Grassa — “The Fat One” — for nothing. It’s the culinary heart of Italy, and the food is nothing short of extraordinary. I had what might genuinely be the best pasta of my life at a small, unassuming trattoria: a trio of traditional Bolognese dishes, each one more comforting and flavourful than the last.

But Bologna is more than just a food lover’s dream. Take time to explore the city on foot — the endless porticoes, soaring medieval towers, and lively piazzas create an atmosphere that’s both historic and effortlessly welcoming. It’s a city that invites slow wandering, long lunches, and spontaneous discoveries around every corner.

But seriously — come hungry. Bologna absolutely lives up to its delicious reputation.