IMOLA, scene of Ayrton Senna's death three years ago, will stage the San Marino grand prix for the next three years, track officials revealed last night.

Race organiser Federico Bendinelli reached the agreement with formula one boss Bernie Ecclestone, fighting off bids by several other circuits.

Imola has been organising the San Marino GP since 1981 and will stage this year's edition of the race on April 27th.

Bendinelli, one of the six formula one officials facing manslaughter charges in the trial for the death of Senna, warned Italian motor racing fans against the traditional invasion of the track at the end of the race.

"If it happens again this year, we are not only risking a fine (by the governing body FIA) but the cancellation of the race," Bendinelli said.

Meanwhile, defending world champion Tommi Makinen stretched his lead in this year's title race with victory in the Catalunya Rally yesterday.