F1 Teams and Drivers Anticipate Return to Racing at Monza Following Summer Break
With the championship's second half looming, teams are preparing to resume their campaigns at the historic Italian Grand Prix.
The story
Formula 1 remains in its traditional summer shutdown period, with teams and drivers taking a mandated break from competition and factory operations. The brief respite, which began after the Hungarian Grand Prix on July 26, allows for rest and preparation before the final push of the 2026 season.
As of today, August 17, the paddock is still quiet, but anticipation is building for the return to racing. The next event on the calendar will be the Italian Grand Prix, held at the iconic Autodromo Nazionale Monza, marking the end of the summer hiatus and the beginning of a crucial phase for championship contenders.
Championship
| Pos | Driver | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Andrea Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 219 |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari | 169 |
| 3 | George Russell | Mercedes | 160 |
| 4 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 138 |
| 5 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 128 |
Next race
The Formula 1 season will resume after its summer break with the Italian Grand Prix. The race is scheduled for September 6, 2026, at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza. This event marks the start of the championship's final phase, where teams and drivers will battle for crucial points.
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