The Italian Grand Prix, at Monza, promises to be one of the most important rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 season. The race, scheduled for September, could signal the arrival of updates to the Mercedes and Ferrari engines, with the potential to alter the championship battle.
Leading the World Championship for drivers with Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes is in a good moment, but faces reliability problems. The team has already recorded three damaged batteries, an engine failure, and issues with energy management throughout the year. Antonelli and George Russell have also reached the limit of four power units allowed in the season. If a new change is necessary, the drivers will incur a 20-place grid penalty.
Por isso, a equipe alemã estuda levar uma evolução do motor M17 E Performance, com melhorias na combustão, novo turbo e combustível atualizado da Petronas. A expectativa é que Antonelli seja o responsável por utilizar a novidade.
Ferrari is also preparing changes for the Italian stage. The new power unit 067/6, currently in the final testing phase at Maranello, will feature alterations to the combustion chamber and the turbo to reduce the performance gap on the straights against Mercedes.
In addition to the engine, the Maranello team is set to bring to Monza a new version of the Macarena wing, designed for low-downforce circuits. The component was initially developed for Spa but was kept for the Italian race.
Mercedes currently leads the Constructors’ Championship with 379 points, while Ferrari sits in second with 307. In the driver standings, Antonelli holds a 50-point lead over seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
