How to Approach the Monza Temple of Speed

The Autodromo Nazionale di Monza is the second-oldest permanent motorsport venue still in operation, second only to Indianapolis. Known worldwide as the “Temple of Speed,” Monza has been home to countless legendary races. Winning here is a privilege every sim racer dreams of, which is why it remains one of the most popular circuits in online competitions.

Monza hosts the fastest Formula 1 race on the calendar, with average lap speeds unmatched anywhere else. The layout is defined by long straights and heavy braking zones, demanding absolute precision from drivers to avoid compromising lap time.

After the main straight, where F1 cars exceed 340 km/h, the first braking zone arrives at the Prima Variante, a tight right-left chicane taken at very low speed. This is also the prime overtaking spot. Clean acceleration out of this section is crucial, as it leads onto a long stretch toward the Roggia chicane. This left-right is faster than the first and requires precise curb usage to maintain momentum.

Next come the iconic Lesmo corners. Unlike the rest of the circuit, these medium-speed right-handers test a driver’s feel for grip with a low-downforce setup. The first Lesmo is a blind, late-apex curve where instinct and memory play a key role. The second is tighter yet faster, demanding full use of the exit curb for strong acceleration.

Another long straight brings drivers to the legendary Ascari chicane: left–right–left. Since the 2024 updates to asphalt and curbs, mastering the first left is the key to a fast sequence. When done right, the rest can be taken nearly flat, bouncing across the curbs.

The back straight leads into the final corner, officially named Curva Michele Alboreto, though many still call it the Parabolica. With an early apex and a wide exit, it’s all about carrying maximum speed onto the main straight.

Though Monza features relatively few corners, each one is technical and punishing. A small mistake is amplified by the long straights that follow, costing valuable time.

Braking is the defining skill at Monza. With so many heavy braking zones, precision and consistency are essential. For sim racers, a high-quality load cell brake pedal can make the difference. Options such as the ClubSport Pedals V3 or the CSL Elite Pedals V2 provide the sensitivity and control needed to tackle this demanding circuit with confidence.

Monza may look simple on paper, but mastering it—whether on track or in the sim—is one of motorsport’s greatest challenges.