FERRARI TRIUMPHS WITH GIOVINAZZI, PIER GUIDI AND CALADO. ROSSI COMES CLOSE TO VICTORY IN THE LMGT3
Imola, 20 April 2025 – On a vibrant weekend in April, the FIA WEC 6 Hours of Imola reaffirmed its status as an unmissable event in the panorama of major international motor racing, transforming the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo and Dino Ferrari into the beating heart of world endurance racing. And despite the changeable weather and the Easter holidays, just as vibrant was the response of the fans, 65,504 in attendance over the three days, once again confirming the organisational success of the event.
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It was a success made even more memorable by the victory of the 51 Ferrari AF Corse car in the Hypercar, won at the end of a race full of suspense. The crew composed of James Calado, Antonio Giovinazzi and Alessandro Pier Guidi offered a performance of great depth, confirming the pole position obtained on Saturday and achieving a well-deserved victory. Valentino Rossi was also a protagonist, who, on the strength of the pole position obtained on Saturday, together with his team-mates Ahmad Al Harthy and Kelvin Van Der Linde, came close to victory in the LMGT3 thanks to an extraordinary comeback by the South African driver right in the final stages, thus confirming last year’s second place.
Participation in the historic centre of Imola was a great success, with all the initiatives, exhibitions, extraordinary openings of venues, shopkeepers and museums, DJ sets and after shows, street food, tastings, experiences and activities dedicated to participants.An additional element of fun, discovery and excitement for those who have chosen to spend the weekend in Imola for the FIA WEC.The proximity between the circuit and the historic centre is confirmed as strategic and appreciated, representing an all-Imola uniqueness. A uniqueness that is always appreciated and speaks to the world. It is estimated that a total of around 20,000 people will attend all the side events hosted in the centre from Thursday to Sunday.
Marco Panieri (Mayor of Imola): ‘An extraordinary weekend for our city has just come to an end, with the World Endurance Championship bringing thousands of fans and families back to Imola, despite variable weather. It was a success from all points of view: great participation, a lively and widespread atmosphere that involved not only the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo and Dino Ferrari, but also the historic centre, animated by street food, music and collateral initiatives. With a total of 65,000 admissions over the weekend, practically in line with last year despite the Easter weekend and the very uncertain weather, the event’s attractiveness and the city’s ability to welcome were confirmed. The Fan Zone, the Ferris wheel, Dinner in the Sky, the renovated grandstands, and the new reception areas made the experience even more enthralling for visitors, confirming the added value of a circuit that is increasingly a flywheel for the development of the territory, of Made in Italy, and of the country worldwide. A sincere thank you to all the women and men who worked for the success of the event: police, security, operators, volunteers, and the staff of the Autodromo and the city centre. Thanks to the management of the Autodromo, director Pietro Benvenuti, president Gian Carlo Minardi, the FIA WEC team, CEO Frédéric Lequienne and all his staff. Imola confirms itself ready for great challenges: this event represents a further step in a virtuous path that will continue. After the debut of the new pits and the restyling of some grandstands, we will continue to invest in hospitality, infrastructure and quality of experience. Now we are preparing for the next international event: the Formula 1 Grand Prix from 16 to 18 May. We will be ready, with the city once again playing a leading role. In renewing our Easter wishes to everyone, a special thank you to those who have chosen to experience it here in Imola, with a passion for engines’.
Roberta Frisoni (Councillor for Tourism, Commerce and Sport, Emilia-Romagna Region): ‘A prestigious sporting event that will have as its backdrop the Enzo and Dino Ferrari International Autodrome of Imola, which confirms itself more and more as the ambassador of Emilia-Romagna in the world. And with it the entire Emilia-Romagna Motor Valley, a unique reality, an unparalleled concentration of great car manufacturers, circuits, museums, teams. Where passion for engines has always been combined with the ability to innovate and invest in research and development. We proudly welcome the return, after last year’s great edition, of the 6 Hours of Imola, an event that is part of the calendar supported by the Region and among the official events of the National Made in Italy Day. Thousands of fans will be at Imola to cheer on the champions on the track. This means for the city and its territory, a new, additional opportunity for promotion and enhancement. The link between sport and tourism is once again confirmed as a winning one’.
Gian Carlo Minardi (Formula Imola President): ‘It was indeed a wonderful Easter day, full of emotions and passion for motorsport. Despite the festivities, so many fans chose to be here with us, testifying to how much this event is felt and awaited. The race was intense, hard-fought to the last, making for a spectacular weekend. Seeing so much enthusiasm at Imola at such a significant time of the year fills us with pride and gives us an extra push to continue growing. The aim is ambitious: to improve even further, to perfect every aspect of the experience and to be able to welcome an even more numerous and passionate public already next year. A special thanks goes to the FIA WEC for the great availability and valuable cooperation shown in the organisation of the event. Heartfelt thanks also go to the Formula Imola family: their commitment has been enormous, and everyone has shown professionalism and dedication equal to such an important event. Together, we have created something truly special’.
