Monza is never just another race. Long straights, heavy braking zones and packed grandstands full of Tifosi create a very particular tension. This year, the story is even more interesting: Kimi Antonelli arrives as championship leader, but will have to fight through the field after a power-unit penalty.
Antonelli at home, but not on easy ground
Kimi Antonelli arrives at Monza leading the 2026 championship. For an Italian driver, racing in front of the Tifosi is already a huge moment. The comparison with Alberto Ascari underlines the weight of history, but it should remain a point of reference: every era, every car and every championship tells a different story.
The weekend will be harder than expected. Mercedes has confirmed that Antonelli will use a new power-unit component at Monza, bringing a grid penalty. Its exact size will depend on the parts replaced. Fastest in qualifying? Possibly. Starting from the front row? Not very likely.
Monza: speed first, then braking
The Autodromo Nazionale di Monza is one of the fastest circuits on the calendar. Cars run at full throttle for roughly 80% of the lap, while the start-finish straight stretches for 1.1 kilometres. But reducing Monza to an engine contest would be a mistake: drivers also need to brake late, place the car cleanly through the chicanes and protect the tyres.
Three key stories to watch
Antonelli’s recovery drive. The championship leader will need to limit the damage in qualifying before managing a race that is likely to be more aggressive than planned.
Mercedes’ response. The team must build its strategy around a start further back without losing sight of valuable championship points.
Ferrari in front of the Tifosi. Ferrari will be watched closely at its home race. The car must be effective on Monza’s long straights and heavy braking zones.
