Seven Unmissable Moments from the 2026 Italian Grand Prix
The 2026 Italian Grand Prix wasn't just about the race; Monza offered plenty of off-track action. From tributes to Michael Schumacher to a Disney-inspired surprise, here's what you might have missed.
Monza, the Temple of Speed, lived up to its name with a thrilling 53-lap showdown at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix. While Kimi Antonelli stole the spotlight on the track with a stunning victory from 19th on the grid, there was plenty of action happening off the track too. Here are seven moments from the weekend that might have slipped under the radar.
In Michael's Honor
Thirty years after Michael Schumacher's Ferrari debut, Monza paid homage to the legendary driver with a special tribute. Sebastian Vettel, himself a former Ferrari driver, took Schumacher's iconic F2002 for a spin, much to the delight of the Tifosi. The V10 engine's roar was a nostalgic treat, reminding everyone of Ferrari's glory days.
Milan's Piazza Del Duomo Turns Red
Ferrari fans flooded Milan's Piazza Del Duomo, turning it into a sea of red. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton joined the festivities, alongside special guests, with South Korean DJ Peggy Gou providing the soundtrack. Leclerc even tried his hand at DJing, though it's safe to say his talents are better suited to the racetrack. Hamilton shared the moment with his mother, Linda, who received a warm Italian welcome.
Sainz Glams Up for Venice
Carlos Sainz swapped his racing gear for a sleek suit at the Venice International Film Festival. The Williams driver attended the premiere of Danny Boyle's new film _Ink_, making a stylish appearance on the red carpet in Giorgio Armani, accompanied by his partner Rebecca Donaldson.
Lightning McQueen's 20th Anniversary
Celebrating 20 years of the Disney-Pixar film _Cars_, Lightning McQueen made a special appearance at Monza. The Safety Car sported a unique livery in honor of the animated star. For drivers like Liam Lawson and Franco Colapinto, meeting their childhood hero in the paddock was a dream come true.
Antonelli's Special Helmet
Racing in front of a home crowd, Kimi Antonelli donned a special helmet inspired by MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi. The design featured Italian cultural elements and cartoon figures of Antonelli and Rossi. It was a fitting tribute as Antonelli led the drivers' standings heading into his home Grand Prix.
Enter Kimi Paperelli
Kimi Antonelli made his Disney debut with a cartoon version of himself, 'Kimi Paperelli', appearing in _Topolino_ magazine. This collaboration with Disney brought a bit of whimsy to the racing world, with Antonelli admitting his childhood love for Donald Duck and _Topolino_.
Dinner on the Grid
In a quintessentially Italian tradition, Barilla hosted a special dinner on the starting grid. F1's Official Pasta Partner transformed the track into a dining room, complete with a three-course, F1-themed menu. It was a rare chance to enjoy good food in the unique setting of a Grand Prix grid.
These moments added layers to the Italian Grand Prix weekend, proving that Monza is as much about the culture and history as it is about the race itself.