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Overview of the Monza Circuit

May 29, 2025

Monza Circuit Overview

General Information

  • Location: Monza, Italy, near Milan
  • Length: 5.793 km (3.600 mi)
  • Opened: 3 September 1922
  • Owner: Comune di Monza & Milano
  • Operator: SIAS S.p.A.
  • Capacity: 118,865
  • FIA Grade: 1

Historical Significance

  • Third purpose-built motor racing circuit globally
  • Oldest motor racing circuit in mainland Europe
  • Known as "The Temple of Speed" due to long straights and high-speed corners

Major Events

  • Italian Grand Prix: Hosted since 1949, except 1980
  • GT World Challenge Europe: Various years
  • Monza Rally Show: Regular event
  • Other Events: TCR World Tour, Monza 12h Cycling Marathon

Track Features

  • Grand Prix Circuit:

    • Length: 5.793 km
    • Surface: Asphalt
    • Turns: 11
    • Features: Curva Grande, Curva di Lesmo, Variante Ascari, Curva Alboreto
  • Motorcycle Circuit:

    • Length: 5.777 km
    • Surface: Asphalt
    • Turns: 11
  • Junior Course:

    • Length: 2.405 km
    • Surface: Asphalt
    • Turns: 4
  • Oval Track: High-speed, banked, restored in the 2010s

Safety and Modifications

  • Numerous fatal accidents, leading to continuous track modifications
  • Criticized for lack of run-off areas, especially at Variante della Roggia
  • Modifications include chicanes and improved safety facilities

Recent Developments

  • Planned track changes in 2017 were suspended
  • 2024 resurfacing and facility improvements planned

Notable Records

  • Fastest official race lap: 1:21.046 by Rubens Barrichello (2004)
  • Lewis Hamilton recorded fastest pole position in 2020

Circuit Changes

  • Multiple configurations over the years to enhance safety and modernize

Additional Uses

  • Hosts cycling and running events
  • Venue for Nike's Breaking2 marathon attempt

Challenges for Drivers

  • High-speed nature demands robust braking stability and traction
  • Engine construction and performance critical due to frequent high-speed zones
  • Limited corners, focusing on straight-line speed and minimal downforce setups

References and Further Reading