Andrea Kimi AntonelliJacques VilleneuveMax Verstappen 
via thejudge13.comFerrari shows promise with new engine at MonzaFerrari's recent advancements with the ADUO 2 engine have positioned them as a strong contender for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix. Mercedes acknowledges that Ferrari could pose a significant challenge during qualifying.
thejudge13.comSat 5 Sep · 07:44 UTC
via BBC SportBriatore claims Antonelli is winning Ferrari fansFlavio Briatore suggests that Kimi Antonelli's success is challenging Ferrari's dominance among Italian Formula 1 supporters. Reports indicate that there is growing interest in Antonelli as a potential title contender, sparking discussions about fan loyalty.
BBC Sport+ 1 moreSat 5 Sep · 06:32 UTC
via f1technical.netMercedes explains unusual programme on opening day in MonzaMercedes had a productive opening day at the Italian Grand Prix, with George Russell achieving the fastest time in FP2. Kimi Antonelli, who will start from the back of the grid due to a penalty, focused on race preparation, allowing the team to gather valuable data on car performance in race conditions. The team is optimistic but cautious, acknowledging that Friday's pace may not carry over to the rest of the weekend.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes' Trackside Engineering Director, highlighted the importance of the contrasting programmes for Russell and Antonelli. Despite Russell's strong performance, he emphasized that the competitive landscape is tight, with Ferrari and other teams showing strong pace. Mercedes plans to analyze the data collected to make informed decisions moving forward in the race weekend.
f1technical.netFri 4 Sep · 23:00 UTC
via f1technical.netFerrari improves engine but Mercedes remains aheadMercedes demonstrated competitive pace during the opening day of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. George Russell topped the second practice session, while both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc remained in contention for top positions.f1technical.net+ 1 moreFri 4 Sep · 22:08 UTC
via gpfans.comValentino Rossi given F1 tribute at Italian Grand PrixThe 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza features a tribute to Valentino Rossi, the beloved MotoGP champion, through Kimi Antonelli's specially designed crash helmet. Antonelli, who leads the championship for Mercedes, aims to honor Rossi while competing in his home race, despite facing an engine penalty that will place him at the back of the grid.
Antonelli's helmet design pays homage to Rossi's iconic 2002 Mugello helmet, showcasing a cartoon of the two in their racing suits. While he acknowledges the challenge of starting from the back, Antonelli remains optimistic about targeting a top-five finish in the race.
gpfans.comFri 4 Sep · 21:29 UTC
via theguardian.comKimi Antonelli: ‘The F1 environment is great but at times it can be very brutal’Kimi Antonelli, a 20-year-old driver for Mercedes, is currently leading the Formula 1 drivers' championship by 59 points. Despite facing challenges during his debut season, including public scrutiny and pressure, he has emerged stronger and has achieved remarkable success, including five consecutive race victories this season. Antonelli acknowledges the brutal nature of the F1 environment but remains focused on enjoying his racing career.
As he prepares for the Monza Grand Prix, Antonelli will start from the back of the grid due to a penalty for new engine components. He emphasizes the importance of his relationship with his father, who has been a significant support throughout his racing journey. Antonelli's performance and personality have made him a beloved figure in Italy, where fans are eager to see him become the first Italian world champion in decades.
theguardian.comFri 4 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via Formula1.comLiam Lawson calls Friday practice productive for Red BullLiam Lawson and Red Bull Racing described their Friday practice session in Italy as productive. Despite not being among the top contenders, the team focused on gathering valuable data ahead of the race.
Formula1.comFri 4 Sep · 18:28 UTC
via PlanetF1Piastri not rushing McLaren contract talksOscar Piastri has expressed that the trend of longer contracts in Formula 1 does not significantly impact his perspective on his own future. He noted that even with the certainty surrounding rivals like Max Verstappen, he remains focused on his own career path.
PlanetF1+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport.com"We clearly have an issue" – Red Bull responds to Max Verstappen's radio complaintsRed Bull Racing faced significant challenges during the practice sessions for the Italian Grand Prix, particularly with Max Verstappen's car balance. Technical director Pierre Wache confirmed that the team is grappling with similar issues to those experienced at Zandvoort, including a lack of rear downforce and heavy bouncing. Verstappen's absence from the first practice session limited the team's data collection, complicating their efforts to address these problems effectively.
Ayumu Iwasa, who substituted for Verstappen in the first session, echoed the concerns about the car's balance, especially at high speeds. Wache stated that the team is focused on optimizing energy management and evaluating various car components to improve performance. Despite their strong track record in overcoming difficulties, Wache expressed caution about their ability to turn the situation around in time for the race.
Motorsport.comFri 4 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comF1 Italian GP: Saturday schedule, weather forecast and how to watchThe article provides details about the schedule and weather for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza. George Russell topped the timesheets in the second practice session, narrowly beating Charles Leclerc, while championship leader Kimi Antonelli will start from the back due to an engine change. Max Verstappen struggled for balance, finishing ninth in practice.
Saturday's schedule includes free practice 3 and qualifying, with hot weather expected to impact tire and brake management. The race will take place on Sunday, and viewers can watch through various broadcasters depending on their region.Motorsport.comFri 4 Sep · 17:50 UTC
via Formula1.comAntonelli assesses ‘weird’ first day on track in MonzaKimi Antonelli had a mixed first day at the Italian Grand Prix, finishing fifth in the first practice session and third in the second, where his teammate George Russell set the fastest time. Antonelli will start from the back of the grid due to a planned engine change, which he acknowledged would make his race more challenging as he aims to recover positions. He noted that the day felt unusual with a focus on long runs rather than single lap speed, but he gathered valuable data for the upcoming race.
Antonelli also highlighted the competitive nature of the weekend, particularly with Ferrari's improved performance, suggesting a tight battle for pole position. Mercedes' Deputy Team Principal, Bradley Lord, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team's solid performance and the importance of long run pace for Antonelli's strategy. Overall, the team is optimistic about their chances despite the challenges ahead.Formula1.comFri 4 Sep · 17:22 UTC
via Formula1.comAlex Albon receives 20-place grid penalty at MonzaAlex Albon will start the Italian Grand Prix from the back of the grid due to a 20-place penalty. This penalty was incurred after Williams made additional power unit changes to his car.Formula1.com+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 16:22 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.Formula1.comFri 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.
Motorsport WeekFri 4 Sep · 15:45 UTC
via F1iGeorge Russell leads practice sessions at MonzaGeorge Russell emerged as the fastest driver in both practice sessions for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. He topped the timesheets in FP2, closely followed by Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and teammate Kimi Antonelli.
F1i+ 7 moreFri 4 Sep · 15:23 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
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 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 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