Fans are eagerly anticipating the 2024 Grand Prix of Italy. The Autodromo Nazionale Monza, colloquially known as the ‘Temple of Speed,’ first welcomed its racers in 1950. This circuit is beloved by many for its long stretches and astonishing top speeds.
At the renowned circuit near Milan, records are shattered. Formula 1 drivers in Monza achieve the highest speeds and complete a lap with the highest average speed. The ‘Temple of Speed’ opened in 1922 and was then, along with Indianapolis in the United States and Brooklands in England, one of the only permanent auto circuits in the world. Today, Monza is still recognized as one of the most historically rich circuits globally and identifies itself as the home base of Ferrari and Visa Cash App RB.
Key Facts about the Italian GP at Monza:
- Opening: 1922
- First F1 Race: 1950
- Location: Monza
- Length: 5.793 km
- Number of Turns: 11
- Most Victories: Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton (5)
- Lap Record: Lewis Hamilton (1.18,889 in 2020)
Recent Winners of the Italian Grand Prix:
- 2023: Max Verstappen
- 2022: Max Verstappen
- 2021: Daniel Ricciardo
- 2020: Pierre Gasly
- 2019: Charles Leclerc
- 2018: Lewis Hamilton
Latest News on the 2023 Italian Grand Prix
The McLaren team boss has expressed his strong desire to never again see the team’s cars collide with each other. This comes after a recent incident that raised concerns about the team’s strategy and coordination on the track.
Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has issued a challenge to Mercedes, stating that they should first focus on improving their performance before they can be considered a serious threat. This statement reflects the competitive spirit and confidence within the Red Bull team following their recent victories.
On the Ferrari front, drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are working hard to improve their performance and secure a win for the team. Despite facing tough competition, the team remains optimistic about their chances in the upcoming races.
Charles Leclerc: ‘This is Exactly How Formula 1 Should Be’
The circuit where the Italian Grand Prix is held each year is a dream destination for every Ferrari driver. They all aspire to win the race in Monza. Until 1972, the circuit did not have the three chicanes that are present today. Without the chicanes, the straight sections were so long that the slipstream battles posed a significant risk. Since 1976, the race has been held in its current layout.
Lewis Hamilton, the Speed Demon of the Italian GP
Both Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton have won the Italian Grand Prix five times. Among the constructors, Ferrari leads with twenty victories in Italy, far ahead of second-placed McLaren with eleven wins. Max Verstappen has won the race in Monza twice, in 2022 and the most recent year, 2023.
Monza: Europe’s Speed Paradise
In the 2020 Italian Grand Prix qualification, Lewis Hamilton set the highest average top speed ever recorded in a Formula 1 car at Monza. He clocked a time of 1:18.887, equivalent to 264.3 kilometers per hour. Notably, Sebastian Vettel, Juan Pablo Montoya, and Pierre Gasly all won their first Formula 1 race at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. Nyck de Vries made his Formula 1 debut in 2022 as a substitute for Williams. He finished ninth and earned a F1 contract with AlphaTauri for 2023 based on this performance.
The Thrill of Speed at Monza
There’s much to say about the beautiful Monza circuit, but speed is paramount. On the long stretches, top speeds of 350km/h can be achieved, leading to exciting finishes. In 1971, Peter Gethin crossed the finish line first, defeating Ronnie Peterson by a mere 0.01 seconds.
It’s no surprise that the battle at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza is quickly decided. On average, the race is settled in 75 minutes, making it one of the shortest F1 races in the World Championship. Interestingly, the Italian Grand Prix is the fifth oldest GP, but also the most hosted.
Schedule for the 2024 Italian GP at Monza
Friday, August 30
13:30 – 14:30 First free practice
17:00 – 18:00 Second free practice
Saturday, August 31
12:30 – 13:30 Third free practice
16:00 – 17:00 Qualification
Sunday, September 1
15:00 – 17:00 Race
