The Italian Grand Prix: Monza, a blend of speed and history

The Monza circuit in Lombardy is once again hosting the Italian Grand Prix this year. This circuit continues to attract attention for its speed, but above all for the history it has experienced since joining the calendar. Built in 1922, the Monza circuit proudly bears its name as a temple of speed.

Speed is paramount at Monza.

Since its first race in 1950, the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza is known for the speed it brings to the Grand Prix. The Monza track stretches over 5.793 kilometers long and features multiple straight lines and fast corners that push the car to its maximum every weekend. While it is the second oldest circuit in the championship after Spa-Francorchamps, its modernity and atmosphere attract drivers, including Max Verstappen who described it as “old school” and is always looking forward to being there.

The Monza circuit was specially designed to maximize the performance of single-seaters. In addition to being very popular with drivers, it is also a favorite among many engineers who have the opportunity to see their car at the center of all records. It is not uncommon for the lap record to change at Monza. The most recent one is that of Lewis Hamilton, which he set during qualifying in 2020. With a time of 1:18.887, he once again made his mark on this legendary circuit. The British seven-time world champion currently holds the record for the most wins at the Italian Grand Prix. With five victories in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018, he shares the record with Michael Schumacher, who won as many times between 1996 and 2006.

In 2003, Michael Schumacher had notably set a speed record per lap, with an average of 247 km/h that he achieved during the Grand Prix. Almost two decades later, it is Lewis Hamilton who takes over this title with a lap at an average speed of 264 km/h. With the fastest Grand Prix in Formula 1 history, Monza has earned the title of speed temple, which it has managed to keep until now.

A circuit master of all dangers

Despite its reputation as a fast track, the Monza circuit is not without its dangers. Safety has always been a concern in the history of the circuit, which has been marked by several tragedies. In 1933, before the birth of Formula 1, three drivers died in accidents that occurred almost simultaneously. In total, Monza has been the site of the death of 52 drivers and 35 spectators. A sad record that highlights the dangerousness of the circuit.

If it remains one of the favorite circuits, its dangerous layout threatens its place on the calendar. Before a new contract in 2023, Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, had announced that he did not want to continue the Grand Prix at Monza. Considered too old, he had to promise many changes to stay until 2025. But if this weekend’s race does not convince the spectators, it could mark the definitive end of the collaboration with Formula 1.

Every year, the Italian Grand Prix at Monza is a highly anticipated event, as it always provides its share of surprises. It is notably known for having allowed Pierre Gasly to win in 2020, marking the first victory for a French driver since 1996, but also for Daniel Ricciardo’s victory in 2021 who was going through a tough period with McLaren. The most recent winner is Max Verstappen who clinched the victory during his dominance in 2023. With a six-second lead, he beat his teammate Sergio Pérez. If victory is never certain in Lombardy, it is even less so with the performances of the cars this season.