The F1 fraternity look forward to returning to Monza each and every year, as the circuit is packed with motorsport history. The shadows of the past hang over the 5.8 km track, a circuit of several long straights joined by very few corners. That creates a super fast track, with top speeds some of the highest throughout the year, but there are challenging chicanes that stand in the way of a driver and a good lap time.

F1 history

You can always tell when the Italian Grand Prix is next on the calendar, as the entire Formula One paddock starts to feel the emotion and atmosphere. The enormous history and heritage of the Monza circuit overpowers everyone that attends, and with the beautiful greenery in the background, the entire weekend plays out in an intense fashion.

The banking that made up the old Monza track is still accessible and just a short stride away from the current circuit, which nicely shows off the mix of old and new of Formula One - where the sport has been, where it’s going, and how each season adds another layer to the rich history of motorsport.

As well as the passion for the track and the racing comes the fan worship for Ferrari. It’s an event the Scuderia always want to do well at, particularly to impress the fans, but also to deliver a good performance at their home race and give the factory employees something to cheer about as well.

It’s true of every team at their home event, but somehow it always feels as though Ferrari need a good home race more than any other. The group of supporters, known as Tifosi, swarm the track, cheer loudly from the grandstands, and flood the tarmac for the podium celebrations at the end. They’ll have seen over fifty laps of high speed racing as the Monza track demands top performances from all the cars.

The circuit is, at heart, four long straights with a handful of corners joining them together. The track begins halfway down a straight, with a long run down to the first chicane. As speeds drop, it’s the first overtaking opportunity of a lap, and an important section to get right, to make the most of the straights that follow. Chicanes litter the track to try and stop the momentum, but top speeds have still reached near 350 km/h and drivers need to concentrate and keep their foot to the floor as much as possible.

In terms of the machinery, the more aerodynamic the car the better, but it’s really the engine performance and reliability that makes a difference at Monza. With the recent regulation changes putting an emphasis on power units, as well as fuel restrictions being put in place, the Italian Grand Prix just got that little bit harder.

Learn more about Monza with the Pocket F1 Handbook.