Antonio Fuoco has delivered an emotional farewell message to the current Ferrari 499P after securing pole position for the 2026 WEC 6 Hours of Monza. The Italian driver’s outstanding qualifying performance gave Ferrari its first pole position of the season and, fittingly, the final pole of the Hypercar’s current specification before its planned technical evolution for 2027.
It was a coincidence that Antonio Fuoco had not even considered until someone pointed it out during the post-qualifying press conference at Monza. For the driver from Calabria, the achievement represented a particularly meaningful way to mark the closing chapter of a highly successful period in Ferrari’s endurance racing history.
Antonio Fuoco wants special farewell for Ferrari 499P after Monza pole
When the significance of his pole position was brought to his attention during the press conference, which was also attended by ScuderiaFans.com, Antonio Fuoco admitted that the thought had not previously crossed his mind.
“Thank you for reminding me, I hadn’t thought about it. But it’s true,” the Ferrari driver replied.
For Antonio Fuoco, the occasion was about much more than claiming the fastest qualifying lap. It was an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable achievements of the Ferrari 499P and the success the team has enjoyed with the car.
“I think we all want to give this car the farewell it deserves, because we’ve had a truly wonderful journey together. We’ve won many races, Le Mans three times. I think it deserved this pole position.”
The Ferrari 499P has established itself as one of the defining cars of the manufacturer’s modern endurance racing programme, with three victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans forming an important part of its achievements.
The pole position at Monza therefore carries special meaning as Ferrari prepares to conclude the current chapter of the 499P’s development. The manufacturer is already looking towards the technical evolution planned for the 2027 Ferrari 499P, which will mark the next stage of its Hypercar programme.
Ferrari 499P prepares for 2027 evolution after three Le Mans victories
The upcoming changes mean that the current version of the Ferrari 499P is approaching the end of its competitive journey. Having secured numerous race victories and three triumphs at Le Mans, the Hypercar will give way to an evolved specification in 2027.
That transition makes the final qualifying appearance particularly significant. Antonio Fuoco’s pole position offers a fitting tribute to the car’s achievements while providing Ferrari with an opportunity to finish this chapter on a high note.
The Maranello manufacturer has been preparing its next technical step, with the Ferrari 499P Evo development programme at Monza already forming part of its preparations for the future.
Antonio Fuoco celebrates emotional home pole in front of Ferrari fans
The fact that the final qualifying session for the current Ferrari 499P specification took place at Monza added another layer of emotion to the occasion.
For Antonio Fuoco, securing pole position as an Italian driver representing Ferrari at one of the country’s most celebrated circuits was particularly special. He also highlighted the enthusiasm of the Italian supporters, whose passion was already evident throughout the paddock.
“Being on pole here, as an Italian driver with Ferrari, is really emotional. Racing in Italy is always special; you only have to look at the passion you can already feel in the paddock. I’m sure there will be incredible support in the grandstands tomorrow.”
The home crowd has long been an important part of Ferrari’s connection with Monza. The support surrounding the team’s endurance racing programme was also evident in the build-up to the weekend, when Italian fans gathered to meet Antonio Fuoco and Antonio Giovinazzi ahead of the WEC finale.
Antonio Fuoco targets one final Ferrari 499P victory at Monza
Despite the emotions surrounding the occasion, Antonio Fuoco made clear that the final farewell would have to wait until after Sunday’s race. Pole position was an important achievement, but the Ferrari driver remained focused on delivering the strongest possible result over the six-hour contest.
“We have to stay focused, have a clean race and try to get the maximum out of it. That would be the best way to give it a proper farewell.”
The current Ferrari 499P has already received its Saturday gift in the form of a memorable pole position on home soil. On Sunday, however, Antonio Fuoco hopes to add something even more meaningful before handing back the keys for the final time: one last victory to complete the car’s remarkable journey.
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