Race Guide to Monza
Experience the legendary Monza endurance circuit, a heart-pounding challenge that's not for the faint-hearted. Brace yourself for six hours of breathtaking thrills and navigate through almost a dozen turns at the 5th round of the World Endurance Championships (WEC).
Dive into our comprehensive Monza track guide, providing insider information on the location, circuit, and fascinating facts and stats.
Where is Monza?
The World Endurance Championship in Monza is situated in the European holiday-maker’s paradise – Northern Italy. You’ll find the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza (also known as the temple of Speed) in Monza, just 10 miles outside the business capital of Italy and one of fashion’s big four, Milan.
The racetrack couldn’t be easier to reach by car. It’s around a 15-minute drive from the town of Monza and about 10 miles from our Hertz rental office. While you’re in the area, why not soak up the history of the town or head to Milan to get your fix of retail therapy?
Thanks to Monza being nestled in the center of the Lombardy region, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular beauty on your journey to the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza. Take a road trip through the awe-inspiring Alps or stop by the sparkling French Riviera.
Monza WEC Circuit Guide – What You Need to Know
The Monza track
Monza is one of the most historic circuits in the motorsport universe. The first race was held back in 1922, making it the third-oldest race track in the world. Featuring long straights and wide corners, it’s not surprising that it’s known globally as The Temple of Speed. Its design enables maximum speeds up to around 220mph and 70% of the Monza WEC track can be driven full throttle. With 11 turns and six corner complexes, the track is a spectator’s treat.
Monza circuit changes
The original Monza track boasted a 2.6-mile banked oval, which had an angle of over 30 degrees at the steepest parts. But after multiple fatal accidents, the track was adapted to avoid areas of the oval track. Chicanes (sharp double bends) were also added to the circuit to help slow the cars down.
While measures have been introduced over the years for safety, it still holds the same level of prestige and reputation for being one of the last high-speed tracks of the modern age. The first WEC race at Monza was held in 2021 and we can’t wait for Hertz Team JOTA to take part again this year.
Viewing points
For a real feel of the action, you want to be above the pitlane. Watch the excitement unfold from the Roof Grandstand. From here you’ll also get a fantastic view of the start and finish straight and experience the speed of the race up close and personal.
Monza Facts and Stats
- First race year in WEC: The Monza circuit was first used for racing as far back as 1922, but the first World Endurance Championship Monza race was in 2021.
- Total length: 3.6 miles
- Main straight length: 0.7 miles
- Number of turns: 11
- Overall duration: 6 hours
Monza 2022 facts
- Most successful drivers: The winning team of the Monza WEC 2022 was the Alpine Elf Team, made up of André Negrão, Nicolas Lapierre and Matthieu Vaxiviere.
- Fastest WEC lap: The fastest lap by the Alpine Elf Team in 2022 was 1.37.760.
- Top speed: The Alpine Elf Team reached a best speed of 213.3 mph.
Why Should You Go to Monza?
Visit Monza for a legendary high-speed race at a historically significant circuit. Experience a slice of history alongside razor-fast skill and precision as 37 participants compete in the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) World Endurance Championship at Monza.
Monza WEC is also situated in one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe. Explore up to 700 hectares of parkland while you’re getting a piece of the WEC action at Autodromo Nazionale di Monza.
Let’s Go!
If you’re interested in attending a World Endurance Race but Monza doesn’t work for you, why not check out one of our other circuit guides here.
