Italian Grand Prix 1986 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Nelson Piquet claimed victory at Monza, leading home teammate Nigel Mansell for a Williams one-two finish that reasserted their technical dominance but highlighted the internal battle costing them championship points. The Brazilian controlled the race from pole position, demonstrating superior tactical awareness on Ferrari's home circuit. Piquet's fourth victory of the season moved him closer to the championship lead and proved he remained a genuine title contender despite trailing in the standings.

Mansell finished second after a strategic battle with his teammate, the Williams one-two disappointing the Tifosi who had hoped for Ferrari glory at Monza. Stefan Johansson completed the podium for Ferrari, salvaging local pride with third place. The result tightened the championship battle with three races remaining, as Williams's point-splitting continued to benefit Prost's consistent McLaren. With Mansell leading Piquet by a narrow margin and Prost lurking within striking distance, the championship remained unpredictable heading into the season's climactic finale. The Williams domination at Monza proved bittersweet, as their technical superiority was undermined by internal competition.