Antonelli wins Italian GP from 19th on grid to become first home winner at Monza since 1966

Kimi Antonelli delivered one of the most remarkable drives of the 2026 Formula 1 season on Sunday, recovering from 19th on the grid to win the Italian Grand Prix at Monza and become the first Italian driver to triumph at the circuit since 1966.

The 20-year-old Mercedes driver, penalised before the race for an engine change, worked his way through the field and passed team-mate George Russell in the closing stages to seal his seventh victory of the season. The win extended Antonelli’s lead in the drivers’ championship to 66 points over Russell, who finished second.

In a social media post on Monday morning, Antonelli reflected on the magnitude of the occasion. “P1 at home!! It’s hard to describe yesterday. It’s a dream come true,” he wrote. “What I experienced is something I will never forget, the Monza podium is indescribable, the warmth of all the fans and the sea of people that never ends. I really want to thank all the people who made this possible and who are making this year special.”

Despite the commanding points advantage, Antonelli was measured when asked whether the title was now his to lose. “No, not at all. I just take race by race because you never know what can happen,” he said. “Today went well, we had a massive opportunity and we took it, but of course next week we have Madrid and it’s going to be a new challenge.”

The Madrid Grand Prix presents a fresh test for the entire field, with Antonelli acknowledging the importance of adapting quickly. “We will have to be on top of our game because it’s a new track for everyone and it’s going to be important to be on point in order to maximise the track time and everything,” he added. “I’m going to enjoy this moment and then focus on the next one.”

Antonelli’s victory at Monza carries a weight beyond the championship arithmetic. No Italian driver had won the home race in six decades, and the reception from the tifosi — a crowd that has long celebrated Ferrari above all else — underlined just how completely the Bologna-born driver has captured the imagination of the sport’s most passionate fanbase.