As Monza confirms the shortcomings of the 2026 regulations, Fernando Alonso laments that it is no longer fit to be called the Temple of Speed.

Even with the addition of chicanes, with its numerous long straights the Autodromo Nazionale has long been the one track where the cars could really stretch their legs, where drivers could push to the absolute limit.

However, the lack of heavy braking zones offered drivers little opportunity to recharge their batteries and as a result the top speeds achieved were down on those at other tracks.

"It was different from what we've experienced so far at Monza," said Alonso, a two-time winner at the classic track. "We arrive here and it says we're entering the Temple of Speed, but it's no longer the Temple of Speed.

"In Barcelona, I think we reached 350km/h (217 mph) or 360km/h (223 mph), and in Budapest, 355km/h (220 mph), but in Monza, we were around 312km/h (194 mph). So, it's no longer the Temple of Speed."

Currently contemplating whether to continue in F1, Alonso, who has constantly criticised the new regulations, suffered a dreadful weekend in Italy, as the (engine) upgrade expected to mark a significant step forward appeared to actually be a couple of steps backwards.

His difficult weekend came to an early end after hitting a kerb.

"Yeah, I think I got damage on the car," said the Spaniard. "I went over the kerb at Turn 7, and something felt strange, suspension or something. It was difficult, same as the whole weekend.

"We were with the Cadillacs, so at least we had a little bit of fun in the race," he grinned. "But, yeah, a difficult weekend."