Circuits

One of the old-school of grand prix circuits Monza has a very special atmosphere; the Italians often refer to it as "La Pista Magica" or the magic track. It is set in a royal park and has played host to motorsport since 1922. After Brooklands and Indianapolis, Monza was the third permanent racing circuit in the world, and like many circuits of that era, the lap was over six miles. The remains of the old banked track can still be found in the park grounds.

The high-speed nature of the track means it has had more than its fair share of serious accidents and fatalities. Monza has claimed the lives of high profile drivers including F1's only posthumous world champion Jochen Rindt in 1970. Despite numerous modifications over the years to improve safety for both drivers and spectators, the circuit faces criticism for its lack of run-off especially at the Variante della Roggia corner.

Despite the ongoing safety debate the circuit is still a firm favourite with fans who can always expect an action-packed high-speed race. Legendary Ferrari fans, known as the Tifosi, turn the stands to a sea of red on race day, as they cheer on their team at their local circuit.

Claire Furnell November 2009

On September 10, 1961 Wolfgang von Trips was killed when his Ferrari collided with Jim Clark's Lotus. His car was launched into the air and he was thrown fatally from the car, which landed in the crowd, instantly killing 11 spectators.

Just nine years later at the 1970 Italian Grand Prix, Jochen Rindt died at the same track as his hero His Lotus inexplicably ploughed into a barrier at Monza during practice. Rindt became the only driver to be awarded the drivers' title posthumously.

Ronnie Peterson died from his injuries after a crash at the 1978 Italian Grand Prix. James Hunt's McLaren clipped Peterson's Lotus, sending him crashing into the barriers. Vittorio Brambilla collided with the wreckage, and the car burst into flames. Peterson's legs were badly broken and he had suffered mild burns, and he later died from his injuries in hospital.