Here’s everything you need to know about the Monza circuit to be used at the Italian Grand Prix this weekend – track guide
The Italian Grand Prix, established in 1921, stands as the fifth oldest among national Grand Prix races, trailing behind the French, American, Spanish, and Russian Grands Prix.
With its upcoming 93rd edition in 2023, it secured the record for the most frequently held Grand Prix since 2013. Alongside the British GP, the Italian Grand Prix is unique in its uninterrupted participation in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix every year since the championship’s inception in 1950.
The historic Monza circuit, situated near the city of Monza to the north of Milan, Italy, is the designated location for the Italian Grand Prix. Constructed in 1922, it holds the distinction of being the third purpose-built motor racing circuit globally, following Brooklands and Indianapolis, and it remains the oldest such circuit in mainland Europe.
The circuit’s most prominent occasion is the Italian Grand Prix, an event that has been held there consistently since 1949, barring the single instance in 1980.
Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton share the distinction of being the most accomplished drivers in the history of the Italian Grand Prix, with both securing a record-breaking five victories each. Ferrari holds the title for the most successful constructor, having claimed victory 20 times. Notably, Rubens Barrichello set the official race lap record for this Grand Prix with a timing of 1:21.046, accomplished while driving a Ferrari F2004 during the 2004 Italian Grand Prix.
What are the key features of the Monza F1 Italian GP track?
The Monza F1 track, officially known as the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, is renowned for its distinctive and captivating features that set it apart within the Formula 1 circuit. At the heart of its allure are its high-speed straights that allow the cars to achieve remarkable velocities, resulting in thrilling overtaking maneuvers and breathtaking displays of power. The track’s layout, characterized by long stretches of open road, establishes Monza as one of the fastest circuits on the F1 calendar, consistently pushing the limits of speed and engineering prowess.
Among its standout features is the challenging and iconic Curva Parabolica, a sweeping corner that tests the precision and skill of drivers as they navigate through its complex curvature. The Parabolica, along with other corners, showcases the delicate balance drivers must maintain between maintaining high speeds and skillful control. The Monza circuit demands a unique low-downforce setup, which forces teams to find the optimal compromise between straight-line speed and cornering stability.
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