Flooding: this weekend's Imola F1 Grand Prix called off

(see related) (ANSA) - ROME, MAY 17 - Formula 1 said Wednesday that this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola has been called off after the northeastern region was hit by a deadly wave of torrential rain and flooding.
    A statement said the decision had been taken because it is not possible to guarantee the safely of fans, the teams and personnel due to the extreme weather "It is the right and responsible thing to do given the situation faced by the towns and cities in the region," it aqdded.
    "It would not be right to put further pressure on the local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time".
    Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said it was "such a tragedy to see what has happened to Imola and Emilia-Romagna, the town and region that I grew up in.
    "My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding and the families and communities affected," he continued.
    "I want to express my gratitude and admiration for the incredible emergency services who are working tirelessly to help those who need help and alleviate the situation - they are heroes and the whole of Italy is proud of them". (ANSA).