Antonelli celebrates 'incredible' Monza victory: 'I never expected to be here'

Kimi Antonelli produced a historic drive at the Italian Grand Prix. Starting 19th after taking a grid penalty for an engine change, the Mercedes driver fought his way through the field to win his home race at Monza this Sunday (6), eventually overtaking team-mate and championship rival George Russell in the closing laps.

The victory ended Italy’s 60-year wait for a home winner at Monza, with Antonelli becoming the first Italian to stand on the top step of the podium at the circuit since Ludovico Scarfiotti in 1966. It was also Antonelli’s seventh Grand Prix victory of the 2026 season.

The result also placed Antonelli alongside the second-lowest starting position from which a driver has won a Formula 1 Grand Prix. Only John Watson, who won from 22nd at the 1983 United States Grand Prix West, has won from further back.

Speaking after the race, Antonelli described the result as “incredible” and admitted he had never expected to be celebrating a victory after starting so far down the grid.

“Incredible. I’m so happy and I never expected to be here today, but we made it and I’m so happy,” Antonelli said.

The Italian’s victory was briefly put at risk in the closing stages when he attacked Russell at Turn 3 and ran off the track. Antonelli feared the mistake had cost him the win, but he retained enough pace to recover and regain the lead.

“It was a scary moment. The asphalt was crumbling, but I still thought I could make the corner. But as soon as I got a bit of gravel, I went straight on and thought I had lost my chance. But fortunately we still had the pace and managed to win,” he added.

Antonelli’s victory also strengthened his position at the top of the Drivers’ Championship. Russell finished second and remains behind his Mercedes team-mate in the title fight.

The F1 season continues next weekend, from September 11-13, with the Spanish Grand Prix at Madrid’s new MADRING circuit. GRANDE PRÊMIO will continue to cover all the action from the 14th round of the 2026 championship.

Media: Kimi Antonelli’s post-race interview — Watch the video

FAQ

How far back did Kimi Antonelli start at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix?

Antonelli started the Italian Grand Prix from 19th on the grid after receiving a penalty related to an engine change. He then fought his way through the field to take victory.