The origins: 1922
The Autodromo Nazionale Monza was built in 1922, making it the third purpose-built motorsport circuit in the world (after Brooklands and Indianapolis). The original circuit was a combined road course and high-speed oval, with the oval sections reaching speeds that were unprecedented at the time.
The circuit hosted its first Italian Grand Prix in 1922, and it quickly became one of the most prestigious events in motorsport.
The golden era: 1950-1990
Monza has hosted the Italian Grand Prix every year since the Formula 1 World Championship began in 1950 — the only circuit to have done so. The circuit has been modified several times, with the most significant changes being the addition of chicanes to slow the cars and the removal of the high-speed oval sections.
The circuit hosted some of the most iconic moments in F1 history. The 1971 race, where Peter Gethin won by just 0.01 seconds — the closest finish in F1 history. The 1988 race, where Gerhard Berger won for Ferrari just weeks after the death of Enzo Ferrari, in one of the most emotional moments in the sport's history.
The modern era: 1994-present
The modern Monza circuit has been modified to improve safety, with the addition of gravel traps, barriers, and runoff areas. But the fundamental character of the circuit — fast, flowing, and demanding — has remained unchanged.
The circuit remains the fastest on the calendar, with average speeds exceeding 250 km/h and top speeds regularly exceeding 350 km/h. It is the ultimate test of engine power, aerodynamic efficiency, and driver bravery.
Why Monza endures
Monza endures because it is the purest expression of speed in Formula 1. No other circuit demands so much from an engine. No other circuit has such a passionate and devoted fanbase. And no other circuit has such an unbroken connection to the sport's history.