via espn.comLeclerc fastest in first practice at Italian GPIn the first practice session for the Italian Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari achieved the fastest time, setting a record of 1:26.153. His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, followed closely in second place, while George Russell secured third. Title leader Kimi Antonelli faced a setback, as he will start from the back of the grid due to a grid penalty for a new engine, finishing fifth in practice. Lando Norris, who has recently won two races, finished sixth in the session, indicating his competitive form.
The session saw several drivers, including Max Verstappen, rotated out as teams fulfilled rookie obligations. Paul Aron emerged as the top rookie, finishing in 10th place. Additionally, the FIA has classified the Italian Grand Prix as a heat hazard amid the ongoing European heatwave, highlighting the challenging conditions for the teams and drivers.
espn.comFri 4 Sep · 12:41 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri receives three-place grid penalty at MonzaOscar Piastri has been penalized with a three-place grid drop for the Italian Grand Prix after impeding Liam Lawson during qualifying. As a result, he will start the race from sixth position instead of third.
RacingNews365+ 13 moreFri 4 Sep · 12:12 UTC
via f1technical.netLawson opens up on key differences between Red Bull's and Racing Bulls' 2026 F1 carLiam Lawson is set to race for Red Bull at the Italian Grand Prix after Isack Hadjar was sidelined due to a wrist injury. Lawson had previously stepped in for Hadjar at the Dutch Grand Prix and is now looking to capitalize on this opportunity, having received late confirmation of his participation just days before the race. He feels that his experience from Zandvoort will help him adjust more easily to the car during the upcoming race weekend at Monza, which features a traditional format with three practice sessions.
In preparation for the race, Lawson has been balancing his readiness for both the Red Bull and Racing Bulls cars, which he describes as having significant differences in driving characteristics. He highlighted the Red Bull's superior high-speed grip and distinct handling, making the transition between the two cars challenging. Despite the late notice, Lawson managed to complete necessary preparations, including simulator sessions, to ensure he is ready for the race.
f1technical.netFri 4 Sep · 12:00 UTC
via the-race.comGeorge Russell tops final practice at Italian Grand PrixThe results from Free Practice 3 at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix in Monza have been published. This session is part of the ongoing preparations for the race, which is the 13th round of the Formula 1 World Championship.
the-race.com+ 6 moreFri 4 Sep · 11:32 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf · CC BY-SA 4.0Untitled storyWikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf · CC BY-SA 4.0Untitled story
via grandprix.comMax Verstappen Comments on Red Bull's Engine Compliance IssuesMax Verstappen has expressed concerns regarding the compliance of the Red Bull car following a challenging weekend at Monza. He also mentioned ongoing discussions between Red Bull and the FIA about the team's Ford-backed engine.grandprix.comFri 4 Sep · 09:50 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli unveils Valentino Rossi-inspired helmet for Italian GPKimi Antonelli, the current leader in the Formula 1 championship, has revealed a special helmet design for the Italian Grand Prix that pays tribute to MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi. The design, created by Aldo Drudi, incorporates the Italian flag and is inspired by Rossi's iconic helmet from his 2002 victory at Mugello. Antonelli expressed his excitement about racing with this helmet, stating it was a special wish of his to honor Rossi.
Despite his strong position in the championship, Antonelli will start the race from the back of the grid due to a penalty. He acknowledged the unique experience of racing at home and is looking forward to the challenge, hoping to make the most of the opportunity despite the setback.
Motorsport.comFri 4 Sep · 09:19 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc issues ‘isolate myself’ claim as Ferrari driver reveals personal cost of Italian GPCharles Leclerc, the Ferrari driver, has shared insights into the personal toll of competing at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where he has experienced immense support from the Tifosi. He emphasizes the importance of isolating himself during the busy race week to recharge, as the demands of the event can be overwhelming, both physically and mentally. Leclerc has won the Italian GP twice, and with Ferrari's upgraded engine, he has the potential to become the second-most successful driver for the team at this event, trailing only Michael Schumacher.
Leclerc recalls the exhaustion he felt after his first victory at Monza in 2019, which lingered into the next race. His journey with Ferrari began in 2019 after a successful career in lower racing categories, and he has since established himself as a prominent figure in Formula 1, boasting nine wins and numerous pole positions. The unique atmosphere at Monza, coupled with the pressure of representing Ferrari, makes this race particularly challenging for him.
f1oversteer.comFri 4 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMontoya predicts drama between Hamilton and LeclercJuan Pablo Montoya has highlighted the importance of teamwork for Ferrari during the Italian Grand Prix. Charles Leclerc also emphasized that slipstreaming will be a key factor in the race.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreFri 4 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via gpfans.comCharles Leclerc confirms Ferrari exit talks with F1 star honest about 'other opportunities'Charles Leclerc has acknowledged that he explored other opportunities in Formula 1, facilitated by his manager's discussions with rival teams. Despite these talks, Leclerc ultimately chose to renew his contract with Ferrari, where he has been a driver for eight seasons, emphasizing his loyalty to the team and his dream of driving for Ferrari.
In a recent podcast, Leclerc clarified that while he did not engage in negotiations himself, he was informed about potential options by his manager. He remains committed to Ferrari's success and aims to deliver strong performances, particularly as he prepares for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he hopes to achieve his third victory.
gpfans.comFri 4 Sep · 07:59 UTC
via F1iRussell reveals Mercedes master plan for Monza qualifyingGeorge Russell has outlined Mercedes' tactical approach for the upcoming Monza qualifying, where Kimi Antonelli will assist him by providing a tow, despite starting from the back due to a grid penalty. This strategy aims to enhance Russell's chances of securing pole position on the long straights of the Monza circuit, which are conducive to slipstreaming tactics. Russell expressed optimism about the plan while acknowledging the limitations of modern aerodynamic configurations compared to previous years.
Despite the championship implications of Antonelli's penalty, Russell remains focused on his own performance and improvement. He feels revitalized after the summer break but recognizes the increasing challenge posed by competitors like McLaren and Ferrari, who are introducing upgrades. Russell anticipates a highly competitive race weekend, with the potential for any of the top four teams to contend for victory.
F1iFri 4 Sep · 07:42 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURKimi Antonelli names one F1 rival ‘you mustn’t forget’ about in 2026 title fightKimi Antonelli is leading the Formula 1 standings with a significant advantage as he heads into his home race at Monza. With six wins and ten podiums from twelve races, he has established himself as a strong contender for the championship, aiming to become Italy's first world champion since 1953. Despite his lead, Antonelli acknowledges the rising threat posed by Lando Norris, who has recently won two consecutive races and is now 83 points behind him in the standings.
As the season progresses, both George Russell and Lewis Hamilton are also in the mix but face a tough challenge to catch Antonelli. Antonelli's performance has improved significantly since a difficult rookie season, and he is now seen as a potential champion. With the upcoming Italian GP, there is speculation that a victory could effectively secure the title for Antonelli, but Norris's recent form suggests he cannot be underestimated.f1oversteer.comFri 4 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen addresses potential Liam Lawson help: 'I never ask'Max Verstappen has clarified his position regarding potential assistance from Liam Lawson during the qualifying session at the Italian Grand Prix. He stated that he does not request help from his team and is focused on his own performance, especially given Lawson's role as a substitute for Isack Hadjar due to injury. Despite the potential for slipstreaming to play a role at Monza, Verstappen is not interested in strategic maneuvers during his qualifying laps.
The article highlights the significance of slipstreaming at Monza, particularly under new FIA regulations that limit energy harvesting. Verstappen acknowledged that following closely behind another car might be more common this season, but he remains committed to his own racing strategy. He reiterated that the team aims for both drivers to excel, without relying on one to assist the other.RacingNews365Fri 4 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFerrari Introduces Engine Upgrades Ahead of Italian Grand PrixFerrari is set to debut its second engine upgrade of the season at the Italian Grand Prix. Driver Charles Leclerc expressed hope that the performance data from their simulator does not accurately reflect the car's capabilities.f1oversteer.comThu 3 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via Formula1.comVerstappen sets out target for MonzaMax Verstappen is approaching the Italian Grand Prix with a realistic mindset following a disappointing exit at Zandvoort, where he crashed on the first lap. He will miss Free Practice 1, allowing Ayumu Iwasa to drive, and will return for Free Practice 2, aiming to assess the car's performance at Monza, a track where he previously won.
Despite his past success at Monza, Verstappen is tempering expectations, acknowledging that the team has been struggling recently. He remains optimistic about the experience of racing in front of fans at his home Grand Prix, reflecting on the positives from his previous outings despite the challenges faced in the last race.
Formula1.comThu 3 Sep · 18:25 UTC
via PlanetF1Liam Lawson facing nervous F1 2027 wait as Racing Bulls responds to Verstappen decisionMax Verstappen's recent contract extension with Red Bull until 2030 has brought stability to the team, but uncertainty remains regarding Liam Lawson's future with Racing Bulls. The team has not rushed to finalize its driver lineup for F1 2027, as both Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad have been performing well this season, contributing to the team's fifth place in the constructors' championship.
While Lawson's position appears secure for now, he faces competition from junior driver Nikola Tsolov, who is excelling in Formula 2. Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer has indicated that the team is pleased with its current drivers, but decisions regarding the lineup will ultimately be made by team principal Alan Permane, who is focused on maintaining a calm environment as they approach the next season.
PlanetF1Thu 3 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen reveals Red Bull response to playful "shunt" request in 100-driver karting challengeMax Verstappen recently took part in a unique karting challenge where he raced against 100 other drivers on a specially designed track at Silverstone. During a live stream, he humorously inquired with Red Bull about the possibility of 'shunting' his competitors, to which the team advised against it, although they acknowledged the playful nature of the request.
The event, titled 'Max vs 100' and hosted by comedian Mo Gilligan, will showcase Verstappen's karting skills and will be available for streaming on Disney+ on September 16. The bespoke track, designed by a former karting world champion, aims to provide an unforgettable experience as Verstappen navigates through heavy traffic while racing.Motorsport.comThu 3 Sep · 17:41 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli responds to Mercedes prank at Italian GPKimi Antonelli, the championship leader, experienced a prank from Mercedes during the Italian Grand Prix. This incident marks a continuation of the playful rivalry between Antonelli and the Brackley team.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 17:15 UTC
via F1iMax Verstappen provides health update before MonzaMax Verstappen has shared a health update as he prepares for the upcoming race at Monza. He reported that a significant concern has been resolved ahead of the weekend.F1i+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 16:26 UTC
via RacingNews365Leclerc to assist Hamilton with tow at Italian GPCharles Leclerc plans to provide a tow for his Ferrari teammate Lewis Hamilton during the qualifying session of the Italian Grand Prix. This strategy highlights the importance of teamwork and slipstreaming in the upcoming race.RacingNews365+ 3 moreThu 3 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekRUMOURKimi Antonelli shuts down speculation of Ferrari future at Italian GPKimi Antonelli has dismissed rumors regarding a potential move to Ferrari, stating his satisfaction with Mercedes ahead of the Italian GP. He currently leads the Driver's Championship and is set to start from the back of the grid due to a grid penalty for exceeding engine component limits. Despite the challenges, Antonelli feels that this situation may help alleviate pressure during the race weekend, allowing him to enjoy the experience more fully.
The Italian driver recognizes that speculation about joining Ferrari will continue as he gains success in his career. He remains committed to Mercedes, the team that has supported him since his early days in racing, and is focused on making the most of his home race at Monza, despite the setback of starting from the back.
Motorsport WeekThu 3 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Formula1.comLeclerc targets ‘very special’ Monza weekend with new engineCharles Leclerc is optimistic about Ferrari's chances at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where they will debut an upgraded power unit. He aims for a memorable weekend, hoping to secure his third victory with the team at this iconic track, which holds significant personal meaning for him due to his early racing experiences in Italy. Leclerc acknowledges the challenges posed by strong competitors but believes that the engine enhancements will help improve their performance.
Leclerc stresses the importance of executing their strategy perfectly to maximize their chances of success. He reflects on previous wins this season and expresses hope that the upgrades will allow them to put pressure on their rivals. The team is focused on making the car faster, which will benefit both qualifying and the race, as they prepare for what they hope will be a triumphant home race.Formula1.comThu 3 Sep · 15:52 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Antonelli: Ferrari an incredible brand but I’m happy at MercedesThe grid penalty comes after Antonelli exceeded his engine allowance earlier in the season. He aims for a strong performance despite starting from the back, targeting a top-five finish. With Lando Norris trailing by 83 points, Antonelli's position in the championship remains strong, and he is eager to enjoy the race weekend without the usual pressures of competition.
Sky Sports F1Thu 3 Sep · 15:52 UTC