MONZA TO HOST FORMULA 1 SPRINT RACES UNTIL 2029
Formula 1 has confirmed that the iconic Monza circuit will continue to host Sprint races for the next three editions after the 2026 Italian Grand Prix. The announcement was made during the official presentation of the event, confirming that the Sprint format will return in 2027, 2028, and 2029.
Monza first introduced the Sprint format in 2021, becoming the first circuit in Formula 1 history to host the new race weekend structure. Qualifying on Friday saw Valtteri Bottas take pole position, while Saturday’s 18-lap Sprint was won by Bottas after he controlled the race from the front. However, because he had taken an engine penalty, Bottas started the Grand Prix from the back of the grid, allowing Max Verstappen to inherit pole position for Sunday’s race. The Sprint also featured several close battles, with Daniel Ricciardo finishing second and Verstappen third.
The 2021 Italian Grand Prix that followed became one of the most memorable races of the season. Ricciardo led home a famous one-two finish for McLaren ahead of teammate Lando Norris, while Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton famously collided at the first chicane after a pit stop battle, forcing both championship rivals to retire from the race.
Keeping the Sprint at Monza reflects Formula 1’s confidence in the circuit’s ability to deliver entertaining action. The combination of long straights, heavy braking zones, and passionate fans has made the Italian Grand Prix one of the sport’s standout events, and the additional Sprint race is expected to add even more excitement to future weekends.
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