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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.
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.
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.
via Motorsport.comMercedes vs Ferrari: Italian GP long runs leave no clear favouriteThe Italian Grand Prix is shaping up to be a close contest between Mercedes and Ferrari, with both teams showing competitive long run times during practice sessions. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton demonstrated equal pace, while George Russell closely followed, indicating a tight race ahead. Mercedes appears to gain an advantage early in the lap, while Ferrari makes up time in the final sector, leaving the outcome uncertain as both teams prepare for qualifying and the race.
In contrast, McLaren struggled to keep pace, lagging behind by four tenths, and Red Bull is positioned as the fourth-best team at Monza. The midfield dynamics are shifting, with Audi facing challenges in engine performance, while Alpine seems to be making a comeback. Overall, the competitive landscape is tight, and minor mistakes could significantly impact race positions.
via Formula1.comLando Norris doubts McLaren's chances for pole in MonzaAfter the practice sessions at Monza, Lando Norris expressed concerns about McLaren's competitiveness. He stated that the team is currently not in contention for pole position.
via f1oversteer.comJolyon Palmer ‘loved’ the very difficult thing he saw George Russell do at the Italian Grand PrixDuring the Italian Grand Prix weekend, Jolyon Palmer expressed admiration for George Russell's driving skills, particularly his commitment in the challenging Parabolica corner during FP2. Russell's performance included a third-fastest time in FP1 and a top position in FP2, indicating a strong start to the race weekend despite facing a significant points deficit in the championship standings.
Additionally, Kimi Antonelli, who is leading the championship, will start from the back of the grid, providing Russell with an opportunity to close the gap in the standings. The article emphasizes the competitive nature of the race and the potential for Russell to capitalize on Antonelli's starting position.
via F1iLewis Hamilton raises concerns over Ferrari's upgradesLewis Hamilton expressed concerns about Ferrari's performance following practice sessions at the Italian Grand Prix. He noted that while Ferrari has introduced an engine upgrade, Mercedes may still hold a top speed advantage that could impact the race.
via espn.comGeorge Russell tops second practice at MonzaGeorge Russell achieved the fastest time in the second practice session for the Italian Grand Prix. This performance is seen as a significant boost for his championship campaign.
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.
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.
via the-race.comEverything you need to know about Italian GP FP2In the second practice session for the Italian Grand Prix, George Russell topped the timesheets, outperforming Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antonelli. Russell's performance was marked by a strong showing on soft tires, despite ending the session with concerns about his car's suspension. Leclerc attempted to match his earlier pace from FP1 but faced a setback with a spin late in the session.
Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton rounded out the top five, while Max Verstappen struggled with car issues, finishing ninth. The session also saw notable performances from Arvid Lindblad and Ollie Bearman, with Bearman benefiting from an upgraded Ferrari power unit. Overall, the session highlighted competitive dynamics among the teams ahead of the race weekend.
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.Wikimedia Commons · Raph_PH · CC BY 2.0Untitled story
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.
via Motorsport.comPierre Gasly takes pole position at Italian Grand PrixPierre Gasly achieved pole position for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, marking a significant milestone for Alpine. He narrowly edged out George Russell by just 0.060 seconds during the qualifying session.
via Motorsport WeekGeorge Russell admits belief that Mercedes must ‘put the team first’ ahead of F1 Italian GP weekendGeorge Russell has highlighted the necessity of prioritizing teamwork as he heads into the Italian Grand Prix weekend. Following a strong performance in Zandvoort, where he achieved Sprint pole and victory, Russell is looking to capitalize on his momentum despite his teammate Antonelli facing a grid penalty due to a new engine. The two drivers are currently in a competitive championship battle, with Russell emphasizing the importance of collaboration over individual ambition at this stage of the season.
As they prepare for the Monza race, known for its high speeds and challenging layout, Russell expressed optimism about the potential for an exhilarating race. He noted the excitement surrounding the slipstreaming opportunities and the strategic energy management required on the track. Russell's focus remains on teamwork, as both drivers aim to support each other while navigating the complexities of the championship.
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.
via CrashGeorge Russell claims McLaren is the team to beatGeorge Russell has expressed his ambition for Mercedes to reclaim the title of the 'team to beat' in Formula 1. He acknowledges McLaren's current strong performance but remains uncertain about the overall favorites in the ongoing season.
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli confirms Mercedes discussions in George Russell support roleKimi Antonelli has confirmed that he is in talks with Mercedes regarding a support role for George Russell during the upcoming Italian Grand Prix. Due to a new power unit fitted to his car, Antonelli will start from the back of the grid, which has implications for his championship lead as his rivals have the opportunity to close the gap on him. The decision to take a grid penalty at Monza was made because the track is conducive to overtaking, making it a strategic choice for the team.
Despite his starting position, Antonelli is prepared to assist Russell in qualifying by offering a tow if requested by Mercedes. He has acknowledged that while he aims for pole position, his priority will be to support the team’s efforts. This collaboration highlights the dynamics within the Mercedes team as they navigate the challenges of the race weekend.
via Sky Sports F1Will Hamilton, Russell or Norris seize title-race opening at Monza?The Italian Grand Prix presents a significant opportunity for Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and Lando Norris as championship leader Kimi Antonelli will start from the back of the grid due to penalties. Both Hamilton and Russell are trailing Antonelli by 59 points, while Norris is 83 points behind after recent victories. The race at Monza is crucial for these drivers to capitalize on Antonelli's misfortune and close the gap in the standings.
Ferrari is set to unveil an engine upgrade at their home race, which could enhance Hamilton's chances of victory. Meanwhile, McLaren's Norris is confident but faces challenges with their performance at Monza. Max Verstappen, significantly behind in points, may also play a role in the title race despite his own struggles this season. The outcome of the race could have lasting implications for the championship battle as the season progresses.Page 14 of 22
