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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.
Fri 4 Sep · 23:00 UTC
via f1technical.netMercedes Shows Strong Performance at Monza Italian Grand PrixMercedes 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 f1technical.netNorris hints at "odd" performance from his McLaren in Monza practiceDuring the practice sessions for the Italian Grand Prix, McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri showed promising pace, with Norris finishing fourth in FP2 and Piastri sixth. Despite these results, Norris expressed concerns about the car's performance, particularly in cornering, and stated that they are not currently in a position to compete for pole position. The team is focusing on understanding their low-downforce package and the unique rear wing design to enhance their performance.
Both drivers recognized the competitive landscape, with strong showings from rival teams like Mercedes and Ferrari. They emphasized the need for further analysis and adjustments overnight to improve their car's balance and overall performance ahead of qualifying. The team remains optimistic about unlocking more potential from their package as they prepare for the crucial sessions ahead.Fri 4 Sep · 22:00 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.comLawson and Red Bull Reflect on Productive Italian GP PracticeLiam 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 F1iVerstappen Praises Red Bull's Recovery After Initial Struggles at MonzaMax Verstappen acknowledged Red Bull's significant improvement during the Italian Grand Prix weekend after facing challenges early on. The team had initially struggled with car balance, but Verstappen noted a positive turnaround as the event progressed.
+ 1 moreFri 4 Sep · 18:14 UTC
via PlanetF1Piastri Comments on Long-Term Contracts in Formula 1Oscar 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 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMcLaren waiting on F1 decision that could clear Lando Norris to make Le Mans 24 Hours debut in 2027McLaren is currently awaiting confirmation from Formula 1 about the 2027 calendar, which is crucial for Lando Norris's potential debut at the Le Mans 24 Hours. The team plans to enter the Hypercar category in the World Endurance Championship next year, marking a significant return to endurance racing after 32 years since their last victory at Le Mans. Norris, who has prior experience in endurance racing, is a primary candidate for this venture, alongside Scott Dixon, who is set to join McLaren in 2027.
However, both Norris and Dixon face challenges due to their commitments in Formula 1 and IndyCar, respectively. The traditional scheduling of the Le Mans race in June may conflict with their racing duties, making it difficult for them to participate. If the F1 calendar does not align favorably, Norris may have to postpone his dream of competing in this prestigious event for another year.
Fri 4 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via PlanetF1FIA confirms Lance Stroll punishment after ‘dangerous’ Lando Norris incidentThe FIA has issued a warning to Lance Stroll and Aston Martin following a dangerous incident involving Lando Norris during FP2 at the Italian Grand Prix. Norris expressed his frustration over team radio after being forced to run wide due to Stroll's slow speed on the track, prompting the FIA to investigate the situation. The stewards concluded that Stroll impeded Norris unnecessarily, leading to the warning for both the driver and the team.
Stroll's performance in FP2 was notably poor, as he finished last among all drivers. This incident adds to his struggles in the 2026 season, where he has not yet scored any points, with his best finish being 13th place in Hungary. The FIA's decision reflects ongoing concerns about driver safety and adherence to regulations in Formula 1.Fri 4 Sep · 17:55 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.Fri 4 Sep · 17:50 UTC
via PlanetF1Mick Schumacher confirms IndyCar future in MSR moveMick Schumacher has confirmed his future in IndyCar by announcing that he will join Meyer Shank Racing for the 2027 season. He will drive the No. 66 MSR Honda and partner with Marcus Armstrong. Schumacher expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter and the opportunity to work with an ambitious team known for its success, including winning the Indy 500.
Before moving to IndyCar, Schumacher spent two seasons in the World Endurance Championship. As a rookie in the 2026 IndyCar season, he is currently competing for the title of top rookie driver, trailing Dennis Hauger by 18 points. Schumacher's transition to IndyCar has generated significant attention, and he looks forward to building a strong partnership with Meyer Shank Racing.Fri 4 Sep · 17:44 UTC
via F1iNorris casts doubt on Monza hat-trick after troubled FridayLando Norris faced challenges during the opening day of practice at Monza, finishing fourth and expressing concerns about McLaren's competitiveness against Mercedes and Ferrari. Despite recent victories, Norris noted that the car's performance was disappointing, particularly in areas where they expected to excel. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, also struggled, finishing sixth in FP2.
McLaren's new H-Wing showed promise, but the team remains three-tenths off their desired pace. Norris acknowledged the increased competition and the need to focus on energy management to improve their performance. Overall, the team is aware that achieving a hat-trick of wins at Monza will be more difficult than anticipated.Fri 4 Sep · 17:25 UTC
via Formula1.comLando Norris Expresses Doubts About McLaren's Pole Position ChancesAfter 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.+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 17:22 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.Fri 4 Sep · 17:22 UTC
via Formula1.comAlbon Faces Grid Penalty at Italian Grand PrixAlex 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.+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 16:22 UTC
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 UTCPage 19 of 49