Italian Grand Prix 2010 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Fernando Alonso produced a dominant performance to win the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, claiming pole position, fastest lap, and victory in front of the passionate Tifosi to seize the championship lead. The Spaniard's masterful display at Ferrari's home race showcased his exceptional talent and racecraft, while the Red Bull drivers endured a disastrous weekend that completely transformed the championship battle with just five races remaining.

Alonso's pole lap of 1:21.962 gave him the ideal starting position at the Temple of Speed, where slipstreaming and straight-line speed prove crucial. The Spaniard controlled the race from the front with the authority of a double world champion, managing his pace perfectly through Monza's legendary corners and chicanes. The partisan Ferrari crowd roared their approval as Alonso pulled away from the field, setting the fastest lap and delivering a complete performance that reminded everyone why he was considered one of F1's greatest talents. His victory at Monza was emotional and significant - Ferrari hadn't won their home race since 2006, and the Tifosi's joy was unrestrained.

Jenson Button drove an excellent race to finish second for McLaren, demonstrating strong pace and strategy. Massa completed the podium in third place, securing a Ferrari one-two at Monza and providing crucial constructor points. The race was defined by Red Bull's disasters - Vettel qualified only tenth after a troubled session and finished fourth, while championship leader Webber suffered a spectacular accident during practice when his car became airborne after hitting Heikki Kovalainen's McLaren at high speed. The Australian was fortunate to escape uninjured but qualified poorly and finished outside the points. Webber's nightmare weekend, combined with Alonso's victory, meant the Spaniard took the championship lead for the first time since the opening race. The title battle had been turned on its head.