Ferrari outlines Monza qualifying approach on slipstreaming
Ferrari has clarified its position on using slipstreaming in qualifying at Monza. Charles Leclerc is expected to provide Lewis Hamilton a tow, while Mercedes is also set to use a similar tactic with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.

Ferrari has explained where it stands on slipstreaming tactics for qualifying at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. The approach remains a major talking point because the aerodynamic tow is still important for single-lap pace at the circuit.
Reports indicate Charles Leclerc is likely to give team-mate Lewis Hamilton a tow in qualifying. Monza’s long straights have long made slipstreaming especially valuable, and that remains true in 2026 despite the characteristics of Formula 1’s newer cars.
A comparable plan is also expected at Mercedes, where Kimi Antonelli is poised to help George Russell. Across the front-running teams mentioned, the available information points to slipstreaming continuing to play a significant role in qualifying strategy at Monza.
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