Leclerc predicts a surprised Hamilton in his first Monza race with Ferrari

In the world of Formula 1, the Italian Grand Prix is a race steeped in history and tradition. This year, the spotlight is on Ferrari, the iconic Italian team, and their two main drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.

Charles Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari since 2019, has already tasted success at the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza. In 2024, he stood on the winner's podium for the second time, marking a significant milestone in his career. This year, he aims to repeat his triumph.

However, the road to victory is not always smooth. Both Leclerc and Hamilton faced a disastrous qualifying at Imola's 2025 race, failing to reach Q3. But a repeat performance at Imola could benefit Ferrari following their blank in Zandvoort.

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time World Champion, is a new addition to the Ferrari team this season. Despite not yet securing a win in Ferrari red, he has expressed enjoyment in racing from a lower starting position at Imola. Hamilton has previously experienced the chaos at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola.

The gap between Ferrari and Mercedes in the constructors' championship has narrowed to 12 points, making the Italian Grand Prix a crucial race for both teams. Ferrari's dominance at Monza is undeniable. They have won 20 Italian Grand Prix races (26.67% of all races) and have had 72 podium finishes (33.33%). They also hold the record for the most fastest laps (19) and pole positions (23) in the Italian Grand Prix.

The Monza experience is unique for the Ferrari drivers, who find the energy and atmosphere to be something else. Charles Leclerc has even stated that Lewis Hamilton will be surprised by the extraordinary experience at Monza.

As the race approaches, Hamilton and Leclerc are participating in PR events in Milan ahead of the race. The first home race of the 2025 season at Imola was an emotional rollercoaster for the duo, with both failing to reach Q3.

Niki Lauda's first World Championship title with Ferrari is being celebrated on September 7, adding an extra layer of excitement to this year's Italian Grand Prix. If Ferrari were to win, it would most likely be either Leclerc or Hamilton, as they are Ferrari's main drivers in the 2024 season.

In 2023, the start-finish straight at Monza disappeared under two gigantic red flags in the shape of hearts. And who can forget Charles Leclerc's radio message as he crossed the finish line, exclaiming "Mamma mia, mamma mia" to his race engineer.

As the countdown to the Italian Grand Prix begins, the anticipation is palpable. Will Leclerc secure another win at Monza? Will Hamilton taste his first victory in Ferrari red? Only time will tell.