Hamilton Fastest as Ferrari Starts Strong at Monza GP Practice

Lewis Hamilton led the opening practice session for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, with Charles Leclerc close behind, marking a strong start for Ferrari at their home event.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's impressive performance at Monza, a year after Charles Leclerc's emotional victory, signals their potential at a track often suited to their car. Hamilton's pace, despite a looming grid penalty, showcases his competitive intent.

The details:

• Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) set a fastest lap of 1:20.177, narrowly beating Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) by just 0.1 seconds.
• Ferrari's car demonstrated immediate strength in the low-downforce conditions crucial for F1's 'Temple of Speed'.
• Carlos Sainz (Williams) finished third, 0.5 seconds adrift of Hamilton.
• Max Verstappen (Red Bull) secured fourth position.
• McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri encountered difficulties; Norris finished sixth, while Piastri sat out the session, replaced by Alex Dunne.
• Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) placed fifth, but his team-mate George Russell (Mercedes) stopped on track due to a suspected hydraulics fault.

What's next:

Hamilton will face a grid penalty for Sunday's race, meaning he will start no higher than sixth due to a yellow-flag infringement in Zandvoort. However, his strong practice performance provides a significant boost. Ferrari's promising pace at their home track will undoubtedly energize the Tifosi.