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via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton inspires Mercedes' new tactic for AntonelliLewis Hamilton's approach has inspired a new tactic for Kimi Antonelli during race starts. This strategy was highlighted by Karun Chandhok in the context of the recent Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
+ 1 moreSat 5 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via RacingNews365How young Max Verstappen left karting boss stunnedGiancarlo Tinini, the owner of CRG, shared insights about Max Verstappen's early karting career, highlighting his exceptional talent and drive. Tinini first encountered Verstappen when he was too young for international competition but was immediately impressed by his skills and determination to push limits on the track. This led to a formal contract with CRG in 2009, solidifying their partnership.
In 2013, Verstappen had a remarkable year, winning two European championships and a world title, despite facing setbacks. Tinini emphasized Verstappen's professionalism and focus, noting that he was always eager to learn and improve. The connection between the Verstappen family and CRG played a significant role in Verstappen's development as a driver, and Tinini expressed pride in having him as part of their team.
Sat 5 Sep · 12:20 UTC
via PlanetF1FIA makes decision on Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen Italian GP incidentThe FIA has decided not to take any further action against Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen following an incident during the final practice session at the Italian Grand Prix. The two drivers were involved in a close racing situation, which resulted in Hamilton having to avoid a collision after Verstappen made a late-braking maneuver at the first chicane. Both drivers exchanged blame over team radio, but the stewards concluded that no penalties were necessary.
In addition to the Hamilton-Verstappen incident, there was another situation involving George Russell and Oscar Piastri, which also did not result in any penalties. Russell topped the practice session with a time of 1:22.219, followed by Hamilton and Verstappen, who finished second and third respectively. The incidents highlight the competitive tensions among top drivers as they prepare for the race weekend.
Sat 5 Sep · 12:11 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell Leads FP3 at Italian Grand Prix Ahead of HamiltonGeorge Russell secured the fastest time in the final practice session for the Italian Grand Prix. He outpaced teammate Lewis Hamilton, who finished in second place.
+ 1 moreSat 5 Sep · 11:44 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell fastest in Monza final practice sessionGeorge Russell recorded the fastest time in the final practice session for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. He outpaced his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton, who finished as the second fastest driver.+ 1 moreSat 5 Sep · 11:40 UTC
via CrashGeorge Russell tops final practice at Italian Grand PrixGeorge Russell recorded the fastest time in the final practice session for the Italian Grand Prix, finishing ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton. The session featured a notable near-collision between Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
+ 8 moreSat 5 Sep · 11:36 UTC
via PlanetF1Mercedes reveals Italian GP tow plan in FP3 as Hamilton and Verstappen almost crashMercedes practiced a tow strategy in FP3 ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, with George Russell achieving the fastest lap time. Kimi Antonelli, who will start from the back of the grid due to an engine penalty, participated in the session and provided Russell with a tow that helped him improve his time significantly. The session saw various incidents, including Alex Albon's steering issues and Lewis Hamilton's near-miss with Max Verstappen as they both navigated traffic on the track.
The session concluded with Russell leading the timesheet, followed closely by Hamilton and Verstappen. Notably, Charles Leclerc had his lap time reinstated after initially being deleted for track limits, showcasing the competitive nature of the session. The high track temperature and the strategic use of slipstreaming were key factors influencing the performance of the drivers during FP3.Sat 5 Sep · 11:35 UTC
via grandprix.comMercedes signs 11-year-old Italian prospect PericoMercedes has officially signed 11-year-old Niccolò Perico, a promising karting talent from Italy, to their junior program. Perico has an impressive karting record, having won several championships and titles, including the Trofeo delle Industrie and the Italian ACI Karting championship in the Mini U10 category. His recent successes in the 2026 WSK Super Master Series further highlight his potential as a rising star in motorsport.
Perico, who is the son of rally driver Alessandro Perico, has been recognized for his exceptional skills and is currently racing with Kart Republic. Mercedes sees significant long-term potential in him, with expectations that he will soon step up to the OKJ category. While comparisons to Kimi Antonelli are made, it is acknowledged that Perico has many years of development ahead before reaching Formula 1.
via gpfans.comQualifying underway for 2026 Italian Grand PrixThe qualifying session for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix is currently taking place at Monza. Drivers are vying for pole position, with notable strategies and penalties impacting the grid lineup.
+ 3 moreSat 5 Sep · 08:51 UTC
via PlanetF1‘Big mess’ – Verstappen plans to avoid ‘sh*tty’ situation at Italian Grand PrixMax Verstappen is preparing for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he aims to improve his performance without relying on a tow from his teammate. He has yet to secure a victory this season and currently sits sixth in the championship standings, significantly trailing the leader, Kimi Antonelli. Verstappen recalls his successful qualifying strategy from the previous year, where he achieved pole position without assistance, and plans to replicate that approach this time around.
Despite the potential advantages of using a tow in qualifying, Verstappen is cautious about the risks involved, referencing past incidents that led to chaotic situations on track. He remains focused on optimizing his own car's performance and is leaving team strategies regarding potential tows up to the team's discretion.Sat 5 Sep · 08:41 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhy Kimi Antonelli’s Italian GP recovery may be tougher than expectedKimi Antonelli faces a challenging race at the Italian GP after being forced to start from the back of the grid due to exceeding his power unit limit. Despite this setback, Fernando Alonso has expressed confidence in Antonelli's potential to secure a podium finish, citing the advantages of Monza's long straights and Mercedes' strong power unit. However, the improved performance of Ferrari complicates the situation, as Antonelli will need to contend with both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton to achieve a top finish.
During practice, Antonelli observed that Ferrari's advancements have made the competition more competitive, particularly in cornering speed. Mercedes is optimistic about Antonelli's chances but acknowledges the unpredictability of race dynamics, including the impact of safety cars. The team is focused on maximizing points from this race, hoping for favorable circumstances to aid Antonelli's recovery through the field.Sat 5 Sep · 08:00 UTC
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.
Sat 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.
+ 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.
Fri 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.+ 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.Fri 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.
Fri 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.
Fri 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.+ 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.Fri 4 Sep · 18:00 UTCPage 21 of 49