2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Weather Report: Is F1 in for a Wet Race at Imola?

After the enthralling season-opener in Bahrain, the 2021 F1 season moves to the second round in Imola. Serving as the replacement for the Chinese GP in the 23-race calendar, the race will go by the moniker – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

It will take place during 16-18 April, exactly three weeks after the events of Bahrain. But will it serve up a thriller like Bahrain, perhaps with rain also coming in to play?

Not likely. The high-speed nature of the track means that there could be plenty of racing action, but the chance of rain is limited. Although it is likely to hit the town this weekend (58% chance of rain), we expect the rain gods to stay away, when the teams arrive during the week.

Weather Forecast at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix

Friday, April 16 – FP1 & FP2 Weather

Conditions: Sunny, with a gentle breeze from the south-east

Maximum temperature: 17 Degree Celsius (Minimum 7)

Chance of rain: 11%

Saturday, April 17 – FP3 & Qualifying Weather

Conditions: Sunny intervals, partly cloudy

Maximum temperature: 17 Degree Celsius (Minimum 7)

Chance of rain: 14%

Sunday, April 18 – Race day Weather

Conditions: Sunny intervals, partly cloudy

Maximum temperature: 18 Degree Celsius (Minimum 8)

Chance of rain: 9%

*All information provided by BBC Weather

How did the 2020 Emilia Romagna GP unfold?

Imola made its return to F1 after being away for more than a decade. However, it was not originally supposed to feature in the calendar. But the COVID-induced pandemic forced the FIA’s hand, and they had to draft a new calendar with more European races with the restrictions making it unfeasible to host the races in many countries.

And it proved to be a popular decision as well. The FIA trialed out a new system where they canceled the practice sessions on Friday. This meant that the drivers went into the qualifying on Saturday with more uncertainty. Hence, it could serve as a blueprint for the future.

While the race itself was spectacular. Bottas took pole from the clutches of Hamilton. Though the Briton hit back as he took the lead on Sunday to claim yet another victory. However, the most popular result from the weekend was when Daniel Ricciardo finished in the Podium places. Let’s hope for similar surprises this time around.

Read More – 2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix Predictions: Can Verstappen Avenge Hamilton Defeat in Imola?