The 2026 Formula 1 Gran Premio d’Italia at Monza will feature a special crossover event celebrating the twentieth anniversary of Disney and Pixar’s Cars franchise. This unique celebration coincides with Lightning McQueen Day on September 5, marking the first time the animated franchise officially joins the global F1 program. The seven-time Piston Cup champion Lightning McQueen will make an appearance in an all-new design inspired by the collaboration and complete a special honorary lap around the historic circuit. The official FIA Formula 1 Safety Car will receive a bespoke Cars-inspired makeover, creating a unique visual tribute that blends high-performance motorsport with Pixar’s cinematic magic. Trackside attendees can purchase exclusive merchandise featuring apparel, accessories, and die-cast vehicles from dedicated retail tents at the event.
Key Points:
- The 2026 Formula 1 Gran Premio d’Italia at Monza will double as a 20th-anniversary celebration for Disney and Pixar’s Cars franchise
- Lightning McQueen will debut an all-new design inspired by the F1 collaboration and take to the historic Monza circuit for a special honorary lap
- The official FIA Formula 1 Safety Car will feature a bespoke Cars-inspired makeover as part of this unique visual tribute