FIA President and F1 CEO comment on 'terrible' Imola weather situation

FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 Chief Executive Officer, Stefano Domanicali, have commented on the cancellation of the Emilia Romagna GP due to adverse weather in the region.

The race was under threat due to the heavy rainfall and floods in the region, which hit the circuit on Tuesday and affected local infrastructure.

F1 personnel was subsequently advised not to attend the circuit, with the Italian Deputy Prime Minister leading calls to postpone the race due to the strain it could put on local rescue efforts.

A decision to cancel the race coming hours later, following consultation with the promoters and local authorities.

FIA President, Ben Sulayem, highlighted the importance of safety and the ongoing recovery efforts being a "top priority" as one of the main reasons why they chose not to proceed with the race weekend.

He said: “My thoughts and those of the entire FIA family are with those affected by the terrible situation in the Emilia Romagna region. The safety of everyone involved and recovery efforts are the top priority at this time."

Domenicali: Tragedy to see what happened to Imola and Emilia Romagna

F1 CEO Domenicali, who grew up in the Emilia Romagna region in Italy, has expressed his thoughts with those affected by the floods as the death toll increases.

“It is such a tragedy to see what has happened to Imola and Emilia Romagna, the town and region that I grew up in and my thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding and the families and communities affected," he said.

"I want to express my gratitude and admiration for the incredible emergency services who are working tirelessly to help those who need help and alleviate the situation – they are heroes and the whole of Italy is proud on them."