Postcard from Minardi Day 2025 in Imola 🏁

March F1 761 

This year, I had the incredible chance to visit Minardi Day 2025 in Imola — a celebration of motorsport history, passion, and unforgettable memories. 

The Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari is already a magical place for any racing fan, but during Minardi Day it becomes something even more special: a living museum of Formula 1 and motorsport culture.

Historic Formula 1 Cars 🔥

Lotus F1 79

Walking through the paddock felt like stepping back in time. The variety of Formula 1 cars was breathtaking — from the legendary Tyrrell P34 six-wheeler to the elegant Lotus 72E, the ground-breaking Lotus 79, and the rare Lotus Type 91. There were also icons like the Wolf WR1, Shadow DN3 and DN12, and a pair of Arrows A1 and A20.

Ferrari F1 412 T1 Jean Alesi - season 1994 🏁

Of course, Italian passion was everywhere: the Ferrari 412 T1, several historic Minardi machines such as the M189 and PS04/B, plus the Fondmetal GR03 and Osella FA1G. International stars were also on display, including a March 701, a Williams FW33 from the modern era, and even a stunning McLaren MP4-15 once driven by Mika Häkkinen. Simply watching these cars come alive on track was spine-tingling, a journey across decades of F1 history compressed into one weekend.

Tyrrell P34 six-wheeler

Meeting the Legend 👋

with the motorsport legend  Arturio Merzario 

One of the highlights of the day was meeting Arturo Merzario, a true Formula 1 legend whose career and charisma still captivate fans. Equally exciting was seeing the future of motorsport in the eyes of Alister Yoong, a young and talented driver carrying the passion of a new generation.

with Alister Yoong

Dream Cars and Hypercars 🚗💨

Praga Bohema

The  event wasn’t just about F1. There were stunning road cars and hypercars on display — a dream garage for any enthusiast. From the Praga Bohema to the Dallara Stradale, and the breathtaking lineup from Pagani, the exhibition showcased the pinnacle of design and performance.

Dallara Stradale Barchetta

Touring Cars and Motorsport Icons 🏆

LANCIA LC2 1983 - 1986

Beyond Formula 1, the track also hosted touring cars and racing machines that shaped the history of motorsport. Each one carried stories of epic battles, legendary circuits, and unforgettable victories.

A Special Tribute 🙏

No visit to Imola would be complete without paying respects at the monument dedicated to Ayrton Senna. Standing there, in front of the statue, was a deeply moving moment — a reminder of the passion, talent, and humanity of one of the greatest drivers the sport has ever known.

Minardi Day 2025 was more than just an event — it was a celebration of racing heritage, a gathering of legends, and a glimpse into the future of motorsport. I left Imola with a heart full of memories, the sound of engines in my ears, and the spirit of racing stronger than ever.

See you next year 🏁🏁🏁

Credit pic: Steve Bago