No more Grand Prix for this F1 icon as he steps down from legendary track chairmanship

Minardi has had a long career in (Italian) motorsport. He is best known as the owner and team boss of the Minardi team, with which the 77-year-old competed in the pinnacle of motor racing for no less than 21 seasons serving as team boss for many drivers including the likes of Fernando Alonso. Later he sold the team, which is currently active in the sport as Racing Bulls.

For the past four years, Minardi has been the chairman of the Imola circuit, where the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix has been held up until this year. This Tuesday, it was announced that this race will not be on the F1 calendar in 2026 and will be replaced by a Grand Prix in Madrid.

Minardi internally indicated he would step down from his chairman position as early as this May. This is not a complete farewell to the iconic circuit. Later this year, the special Minardi Day will take place again, where dozens of F1 cars can be admired.

It's unknown what Minardi will do after his departure. At least, he remains the chairman of the Italian motorsport federation.