Monza 2026: A Defining Weekend for Ferrari

Ferrari’s return to Monza brought early optimism, unexpected setbacks and unwavering support from the Italian Tifosi.

Known as the Temple of Speed, Monza represents Formula 1 at its most direct. Long straights, late braking zones and low-downforce configurations place the focus firmly on performance. For Ferrari, the Italian Grand Prix also carries the pressure of competing at home, where generations of racing history and Tifosi come together.

The weekend opened with a tribute to that history. Sebastian Vettel drove Michael Schumacher’s championship-winning F2002, marking 30 years since Schumacher joined Ferrari. The car helped Schumacher secure the 2002 title during a season in which he finished on the podium at all 17 races—a record that remains unmatched. For Vettel, who grew up idolizing Schumacher before becoming his friend, driving the car around Monza was an emotional moment connecting two generations of Ferrari racing. 

On track, Charles Leclerc led the first practice session ahead of Lewis Hamilton, raising expectations for Ferrari on the high-speed circuit.

Sunday, however, delivered a different result. Leclerc’s race ended following an early accident, while Hamilton recovered to finish sixth. Andrea Kimi Antonelli produced the weekend’s standout performance, moving from 19th on the grid to win his home race.

Although the finale did not reflect Ferrari’s promising Friday pace, Monza once again demonstrated why it remains one of the most important weekends on the calendar. It brings together speed, heritage and the enduring connection between Ferrari and the Tifosi.