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Toto's Imola Preview:
'Progress Made, But Work to do'

12 May 2025
8 Min Read

Formula One lands in Europe for the first time this season this weekend, kicking off the start of the second triple-header of 2025.

That run of three races in as many weeks starts with Imola, and the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.

The team will look to build on its tally of four podiums from the first six races and consolidate its position in P2 in the Constructors'.

Here are Toto's thoughts before the race weekend.

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Conclusions From the First Quarter

Six races, and two Sprints, is a long time in Formula One. More than enough data to establish a pecking order and decipher a direction for the next section of the year.

Toto says: "We head to Imola having completed one quarter of the season.

"From those first six races, we can draw the following conclusions: we have made progress from last year, with the W16 a more balanced car than its predecessor.

"We have scored some solid results, with four podiums in that run of races; and we have more work to do if we want to challenge for victories."

F1 'A Relative Game'

The upcoming European races will coincide with the first notable update package of the season for George and Kimi's W16.

"Our focus is on making gains on that final point as we begin the European leg of the season," says Toto.

"The team at Lauda Drive have been working hard to do that and we will be bringing several updates over the coming races."

That, of course, will not guarantee success, with very little to choose between some teams at the front of the grid, particularly in qualifying so far in 2025.

"F1 is a relative game, though, and we know our competitors will make progress too," adds Toto.

"It will be interesting to see how that plays out on track."

Feeling Right at Home

The first of three home races for our drivers this year lies in wait at Imola. Even before the cars take to the track, it promises to be an exciting weekend.

"Imola also marks Kimi's first home race. He grew up nearby in Bologna, and it will be a special occasion for him," says Toto.

And while the excitement and energy levels will kick up several notches as the weekend approaches, Toto knows it is Sunday afternoon in Emilia-Romagna that matters most.

"It's a race that pays 25 points, like every other, and that's the only thing that counts at the end of the season," says Toto.

"George and Kimi will be focused most of all on achieving the best possible result on track."

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