Monza Track Preview
- therookiereporters
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
As we head to the place Ferrari calls home, the Tifosi come together to share their passion for Formula One. Before these dedicated fans storm the track for the podium celebration, here are some things you should know about the Formula 1 Pirelli Gran Premio D’Italia 2026!
Track Facts
The 5.793km circuit was first raced on by Formula One 76 years ago and provided us fans with 53 laps or 306.72km of raw emotion in the form of triumph for some and heartbreak for others. Lando Norris currently holds the fastest lap record (1:20.901) beating Barrichello who held the title for over 20 years.
2025 Recap
Last year, 4 time world champion, Max Verstappen claimed 25 points winning the Italian Grand Prix but how did he do it? The Dutchman clinched pole and in the opening lap, was able to retain the lead from a charging Lando Norris, however this was short-lived as Max had to give Norris the place after cutting a corner and gaining an advantage. Lando’s lead was only temporary as on Lap 4, Verstappen overtook his rival and kept the lead for the remainder of the race, pulling a 19 second lead. This lead was made possible by McLaren’s mistakes as the team gave Norris a slow pitstop due to a faulty wheel-gun, causing the introduction of “Papaya Rules”. Implementing this controversial phrase caused uproar post-race from fans because during the race Piastri had to give his position to Norris due to the team’s mistake.
On home soil, the Ferrari’s had a decent performance with Leclerc finishing 4th and Hamilton placing 6th. Across the Grand Prix, there was one retirement on the formation lap for Nico Hulkenberg. The DNS (did not start) was caused by a hydraulic issue in his Sauber. There was also intervention from the FIA Stewards, who awarded Oliver Bearman a 10 second time penalty, following a collision with Carlos Sainz’s Williams.
2026 Expectations
Our last time racing saw reigning world champion, Lando Norris, win in Zandvoort. McLaren's pace has increased and they are proving to be quite the challenger for the second half of the season against the likes of Ferrari and Mercedes, so the podium is likely to be decorated by drivers from these teams. However, it is unlikely that the championship leader, Kimi Antonelli, will be joining them for his home race as he starts at the very back of the grid proceeding a new power unit being placed in his Mercedes.
Weekend Schedule
Times in CEST
Free Practice One:
Friday 4th September 12:30 - 13:30
Free Practice Two:
Friday 4th September 16:00 - 17:00
Free Practice Three:
Saturday 5th September 12:30 - 13:30
Qualifying:
Saturday 5th September 16:00 - 17:00
Grand Prix:
Sunday 6th September 15:00 - 17:00
Article written by Alice Seager ©️Alice Seager 2026
