Antonelli Wins Italian GP First Italian in 60 Years

Kimi Antonelli delivered a stunning comeback victory at the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday, September 6, 2026, charging from 19th on the grid to win at Monza and become the first Italian to triumph at his home race in 60 years. The Mercedes driver overtook his teammate and championship rival George Russell with three laps remaining to secure his seventh win of the season and extend his lead in the drivers' standings. The race was defined by Antonelli's relentless forward progress and a dramatic early incident. Charles Leclerc crashed heavily at the Parabolica on the second lap, causing a red flag and race suspension. Leclerc was unhurt, but the stoppage reset the field. At the restart, Russell, who had taken the lead from surprise polesitter Pierre Gasly, found himself in a tense battle with both Max Verstappen and a rapidly advancing Antonelli. Antonelli, who had already climbed to 12th before the red flag, made further significant gains after the restart. He engaged in a prolonged, wheel-to-wheel duel with Russell, with the Mercedes pair trading the lead multiple times over several laps.