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via F1iFerrari Leads Opening Practice at 2026 Italian Grand PrixTeams participated in the first practice session at Monza for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix. Ferrari topped the timesheets in FP1, showcasing strong performance ahead of the race weekend.
Fri 4 Sep · 15:49 UTC
via Formula1.comRussell beats Leclerc and Antonelli to FP2 fastest timeIn Free Practice 2 for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix, George Russell set the fastest time, leading the session with a lap of 1m 22.559s. He was followed closely by Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli, who faced challenges due to an engine change that will see him start at the back of the grid for the race. The session saw all regular drivers back on track after missing the earlier practice, with notable performances from Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton finishing fourth and fifth respectively.
The practice session was marked by competitive lap times and close racing, with drivers attempting to gain an advantage through slipstreaming. Verstappen encountered issues with downforce, while Leclerc briefly lost control but managed to recover. The session concluded with Russell maintaining his lead, setting the stage for an exciting qualifying ahead of the Grand Prix.
Fri 4 Sep · 15:47 UTC
via Motorsport WeekItalian GP technical preview: Upgrades and penalties in MonzaThe Italian GP at Monza will see Kimi Antonelli starting from the back of the grid due to an engine penalty, despite leading the championship. Mercedes' George Russell will not face penalties and will benefit from Antonelli's qualifying efforts. Ferrari is bringing the most extensive upgrades, while McLaren's changes are more modest following a significant upgrade in Hungary. Red Bull is focusing on reliability with their upgrades, and Haas is introducing a substantial midfield update, although Esteban Ocon cautions that Monza may highlight larger performance gaps between teams this year.
The rest of the grid is primarily making minor adjustments tailored for Monza's unique demands. Williams and Racing Bulls have implemented small drag modifications, while Audi notably did not submit any updates. The race promises to be competitive with various strategies and upgrades influencing the outcomes, particularly in the context of the new power unit and deployment rules affecting performance on this high-speed circuit.
Fri 4 Sep · 15:45 UTC
via F1iItalian GP: Russell takes charge in FP2, leads Leclerc and AntonelliGeorge Russell edged Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc off the top of the timesheets in a closely fought second practice...+ 8 moreFri 4 Sep · 15:23 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell Leads Second Practice at 2026 Italian Grand PrixGeorge Russell recorded the fastest time in the second practice session for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. He narrowly outpaced Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antonelli, who are also key contenders in the championship.
+ 3 moreFri 4 Sep · 15:01 UTCKimi ANTONELLI leads the Practice 2 at MonzaKimi ANTONELLI takes the lead from Charles LECLERC — live from Monza, Italy.
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso fires warning to F1 and finally reveals what will make him stay at Aston MartinFernando Alonso has expressed concerns about the current state of Formula 1, stating that it does not meet the expectations of drivers or fans. He emphasized that his decision to remain with Aston Martin will depend more on the regulations than on the performance of the car itself, as the team struggles in the constructors' standings. Alonso has been critical of the new regulations, labeling the 2026 cars as the worst he has seen, and he hopes to influence future changes in the sport.
As the Italian Grand Prix approaches, Alonso faces challenges, including potential battery issues at the Monza track and Honda's admission of being underpowered compared to competitors. Despite scoring points in the previous race, the outlook for Alonso and Aston Martin remains uncertain as they continue to seek improvements and navigate the current regulations.
Fri 4 Sep · 11:27 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.
Fri 4 Sep · 09:19 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.Fri 4 Sep · 07:42 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi 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.
Fri 4 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso ends F1 media conference after '80-year-old' referenceFernando Alonso recently concluded a media conference on a downbeat note, expressing concerns about his team's performance ahead of the Italian Grand Prix. Despite achieving a ninth-place finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, he acknowledged that Aston Martin is still facing significant challenges, particularly with their Honda engine, which he feels has not shown substantial improvement. Alonso is cautious about the upcoming race at Monza, predicting it could be one of the toughest for the team this season.
During the conference, Alonso emphasized the need for further enhancements to both the chassis and engine for the next year. He remains motivated about his career, stating he could maintain this drive until he is 80 years old. However, uncertainty surrounds his future with Aston Martin, with team principal Mike Krack confirming that a decision regarding Alonso's position for the 2027 season will be made before the next season begins.Thu 3 Sep · 19:58 UTC
via PlanetF1Fernando Alonso makes blunt future verdict; ‘Sad’ Monza weekend predicted – round-upFernando Alonso has announced that he will make a decision regarding his future in Formula 1 after the summer break. He conveyed his dissatisfaction with the current regulations and stated that competing for lower points is insufficient motivation for him to continue racing next year. Alonso also expressed a desire to contribute to the development of future regulations in the sport.
In other news, Kimi Antonelli is set to start from the back of the grid due to a new engine penalty, while Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to Michael Schumacher during the Italian Grand Prix weekend. The FIA has issued a heat hazard warning for the event, allowing drivers to use cooling vests to combat the high temperatures. Additionally, Arvid Lindblad shared his apprehensions about the challenges posed by the Monza circuit.
Thu 3 Sep · 19:02 UTC
via espn.comLando Norris Expresses Desire to Stay with McLaren Long-TermLando Norris has indicated that he could spend his entire Formula 1 career with McLaren following his recent contract extension. He expressed satisfaction with the team's current success and a willingness to retire with the organization.
+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 17:24 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli Faces Prank at Italian Grand PrixKimi 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.+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 17:15 UTC
via RacingNews365Leclerc to Assist Hamilton with Tow in Italian GP QualifyingCharles 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.+ 3 moreThu 3 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekKimi 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.Thu 3 Sep · 16:00 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.
Thu 3 Sep · 15:52 UTC
via thejudge13.comKimi Antonelli Facing Multiple Engine Penalties This SeasonKimi Antonelli is expected to incur two engine penalties before the season concludes. This situation may provide an advantage to Lewis Hamilton and other competitors in the championship race.
+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 15:31 UTC
via Motorsport WeekFerrari Introduces Engine Upgrades for Italian Grand PrixFerrari has launched a new engine upgrade at the Italian Grand Prix, aiming to enhance performance at their home race. The team hopes these improvements will help close the competitive gap in the championship.+ 4 moreThu 3 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.com‘Pessimistic’ Fernando Alonso now disagrees with Aston Martin about the AMR26Fernando Alonso has expressed concerns about the performance of the Aston Martin AMR26 ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, predicting it will be one of the team's most challenging races of the season. Despite securing a P9 finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, Alonso believes the chassis still requires significant improvements, particularly in handling and overall performance, even after Honda's recent engine upgrade.
Aston Martin's management is optimistic, claiming they now have the seventh-best chassis in the 2026 F1 grid and are focused on completing a weight-saving program by the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. However, Alonso remains cautious, suggesting that the upcoming race at Monza may expose the car's weaknesses, especially on high-speed straights.Thu 3 Sep · 15:00 UTCPage 13 of 28