Key takeaways
- Tempered expectations: Charles Leclerc cautioned that Monza does not favor Ferrari on paper, following a 5th-place finish at Zandvoort.
- Low-drag updates: Ferrari is bringing specific floor and rear wing tweaks alongside engine revisions to boost straight-line speed.
- Home support: Leclerc relies on the passion of the tifosi, leaning on his past victories at Monza in 2019 and 2024 for inspiration.
Charles Leclerc has moved to temper expectations ahead of Ferrari’s home race at the Italian Grand Prix, admitting that the high-speed Monza circuit may present significant challenges for the SF-26 on paper.
Coming off a fifth-place finish at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, the Monegasque driver acknowledged that the temple of speed’s low-downforce, high-speed nature might not naturally complement the car’s current operational window.
In response to a question from GRANDE PRÊMIO reporter Leonid Kliuev, Leclerc balanced his cautious technical outlook with enthusiasm for racing in front of Maranello’s home fans:
“I am looking forward to Monza, although, on paper, it doesn’t look like our best track. But, for sure, because of the importance and how special Monza is, I am looking forward to getting there,” Leclerc stated.
To mitigate these track-specific challenges, Ferrari is preparing targeted adjustments to its rear wing and floor assembly to reduce aerodynamic drag, alongside a second ADUO engine revision aimed at delivering enhanced top-end power along Monza’s long straights.
Leclerc can also draw confidence from his historical pedigree at the venue, having secured memorable victories for Scuderia Ferrari in 2019 and 2024, followed by a fourth-place finish last season.
This realistic assessment arrives amid a flurry of storylines across the paddock, including Frédéric Vasseur urging Ferrari to adopt an aggressive mindset and Ferrari bringing low-drag updates and a 15 hp engine boost to Monza.
Formula 1 action resumes from September 4–6 for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza (Round 13 of the 2026 season). GRANDE PRÊMIO will provide complete live coverage across every session. Follow all updates on our news page.
Charles Leclerc Monza Career Highlights
| Year | Team | Grid / Finish Position | Notable Event / Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Ferrari | Pole / 1st Place | Maiden home victory for Ferrari |
| 2024 | Ferrari | Qualified 4th / 1st Place | One-stop strategy victory over McLaren |
| 2025 | Ferrari | Qualified 5th / 4th Place | Solid points finish |
| 2026 | Ferrari | TBD / Target: Podium | Driving revised low-drag SF-26 package |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. What did Charles Leclerc say about Ferrari’s chances at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix?
Leclerc stated that, on paper, Monza does not look like Ferrari’s best track, but he remains excited to race in front of the team’s home crowd.
2. Has Charles Leclerc won the Italian Grand Prix before?
Yes, Charles Leclerc won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza twice for Ferrari, taking victories in 2019 and 2024.
3. When is the 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza?
The Italian Grand Prix takes place from September 4–6, 2026, serving as Round 13 of the World Championship.
