The pole-sitter for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix will receive the Queen’s Ring at Monza, with the distinctive prize returning for the third edition of an initiative designed to connect Formula 1 with the history and traditions of Monza and Lombardy. The bespoke ring will be presented following qualifying on 5 September and personalised for the driver who secures pole position at the Temple of Speed.
The initiative brings together motorsport, culture, local heritage and tradition during one of the most celebrated weekends on the Italian Grand Prix at Monza calendar. It is promoted and organised by the Cultura & Motorsport Association, with the contribution and patronage of the Lombardy Region, the patronage of the Municipality of Monza, and the collaboration of the Autodromo Nazionale Monza and ACI.
Queen’s Ring returns for the 2026 Italian GP pole-sitter
The Queen’s Ring draws its inspiration from the Iron Crown of Lombardy, one of the most significant symbols in Monza’s history. Preserved in Monza Cathedral, the crown is associated with Queen Theodelinda and the ancient Lombards, giving the Formula 1 prize a direct connection to the cultural heritage of the city and surrounding region.
The ring has been recreated by master goldsmith and gemologist Guido Guzzi. Its most distinctive motorsport element is a chequered-flag motif, accompanied by the colours of the Italian tricolour represented through precious stones set into the jewellery.
Monza qualifying winner will receive a personalised ring
The 2026 edition will be awarded to the pole-sitter immediately after qualifying, which is scheduled for 5 September during the Italian Grand Prix weekend. The ring will be made to measure and personalised with the driver’s name, as well as details referring to the pole position achieved at the Temple of Speed.
The prize therefore goes beyond being a commemorative trophy. Each version is directly associated with the qualifying achievement of the driver who earns it, combining the sporting significance of pole position with a piece inspired by Monza’s history.
The 2026 Italian Grand Prix takes place during a season in which Monza again occupies its traditional place as one of Formula 1’s most historic venues, with the full weekend included on the 2026 Formula 1 calendar.
Lando Norris and Max Verstappen are the first two recipients
Only two Formula 1 drivers have received the prestigious Queen’s Ring so far. Lando Norris became the first after taking pole position at Monza in 2024, when the McLaren driver headed the grid before the 2024 Italian Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen then received the second edition after securing pole position in 2025. The Red Bull driver went on to win that year’s race from the front of the grid, as recorded in the 2025 Italian Grand Prix results from Monza.
A third name will now be added to that short list on 5 September 2026, when the fastest driver in qualifying receives a personalised Queen’s Ring celebrating both pole position at Monza and the historic identity of the region that hosts Formula 1’s Italian Grand Prix.
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