Monza awaits: the Austria Formula Cup heads to the legendary high-speed circuit

Round 05: Austria Formula Cup – Monza (ITA)

Following a successful race weekend at Vallelunga, the Austria Formula Cup is set to move on to the next round at the end of July. From 31 July to 2 August 2026, the formula racing series will be making a guest appearance at the historic Autodromo Nazionale Monza as part of the Topjet Formula 2000 Trophy. The fifth round of the season is set to take place at one of the world’s most famous circuits, where the battle for crucial championship points will gather further momentum. Following the change at the top of the overall standings, all eyes are now on the next chapter of what has been an exciting season so far. After his strong performance at Vallelunga, Sandro Zeller (Jo Zeller Racing) travels to Italy as the new championship leader. With two victories last race weekend, the Swiss driver took the lead in the championship and now aims to consolidate this position at Monza. Behind Zeller, however, the battle for the top spots remains wide open. Following his difficult weekend at Vallelunga, Andrea Benalli (Puresport) is keen to put in a strong performance on home soil and close the gap to the championship lead once again. Christof Ledermann (Franz Wöss Racing) and Stig Larsen (G Motorsport) also remain in promising positions and will be looking to score vital points for the overall standings at Monza. With a total of 31 cars, the Austria Formula Cup boasts an impressive international field at Monza. The wide variety of cars in action once again sets the stage for exciting competition across the various categories. The focus will be on the cars competing in the Formula 3 Cup, the Formula 3 Trophy, Formula Regional and Formula Light. Different generations of Dallara cars, as well as various engine configurations, once again highlight the technical diversity within the field and guarantee a variety of thrilling duels on this historic Italian circuit.

Title battle continues to heat up
The highly competitive Formula 3 field in particular promises top-class motorsport. Championship leader Sandro Zeller (Jo Zeller Racing) faces strong competition once again at Monza. Among the drivers who could play a decisive role in the battle for top positions and crucial championship points are Andrea Benalli (Puresport), Christof Ledermann (Franz Wöss Racing), Stig Larsen (G Motorsport), Laurence Balestrini (Corbetta Racing), Francesco Solfaroli (Facondini Racing), Kurt Böhlen (Jo Zeller Racing) and Riccardo Perego (Corbetta Racing). The starting grid will be further expanded with cars from Formula Regional and Formula Light. Numerous international entrants ensure that thrilling battles for position are also to be expected in these categories, and that the Austria Formula Cup once again demonstrates its great sporting diversity. The Autodromo Nazionale Monza is one of Europe’s most legendary circuits and presents drivers and cars with very special challenges. The high-speed circuit is renowned for its long straights, high average speeds and spectacular slipstream duels. At the same time, the hard braking points before the chicanes demand the utmost precision and concentration. In particular, the right balance between top speed, stability under braking and efficient aerodynamics will be crucial at Monza. Small mistakes can have major consequences on this circuit, whilst at the same time there are numerous opportunities for thrilling overtaking manoeuvres. The race weekend begins on Friday with two free practice sessions. At 09:50 and 14:15, the teams will have the opportunity to optimally set up their cars for the specific conditions at Monza and find the right set-up for the high-speed circuit.

Saturday – Qualifying and the Sprint Race kick off the race weekend
Following the two free practice sessions on Friday, Saturday morning will see the first battle for grid positions for the races. After qualifying at 09:30, the drivers will compete for championship points for the first time in the Sprint Race from 13:30. The Sprint Race promises thrilling battles throughout the entire race distance. In addition to sheer speed, a clever racing strategy, good tyre management and making the most of slipstreaming opportunities will be crucial. This offers the championship contenders their next opportunity to pick up valuable points in the title race.

Sunday – Feature Race brings the Monza weekend to a close
On Sunday, the highlight of the race weekend is the Feature Race, which takes place at 10.45 am. Over the longer race distance, consistency and error-free driving will be key, alongside maximum performance. At Monza in particular, small details can make the difference between victory and defeat, podium places and vital championship points. With a strong international field of competitors at one of Europe’s most historic circuits, the stage is set for another thrilling weekend of the Austria Formula Cup. All times are subject to change.