Rashid Al Dhaheri triumphs at Monza with impressive Formula Regional victory

The 17-year-old Emirati driver delivered an impressive performance at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, widely known as the "Temple of Speed", overcoming a difficult opening race to claim one of the biggest victories of his young career.

Monza's high-speed layout and soaring temperatures provided a stern test throughout the weekend, with air temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius and track temperatures climbing above 50 degrees.

Driving for French outfit R-ace GP, Al Dhaheri showed strong pace from the outset. He qualified third in Group B on Friday, earning fifth place on the grid for Race 1, but contact while battling for P4 dropped him down the order and he eventually finished 12th.

Starting P8 under the reverse-grid format, he remained composed through a race featuring multiple overtakes, Safety Car periods and intense wheel-to-wheel battles. The Emirati steadily worked his way through the field before taking the lead and pulling off a commanding victory.

After crossing the finish line, Al Dhaheri celebrated from the cockpit before being greeted by his team and members of the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 driver development programme. The UAE flag was raised above the circuit during the podium ceremony as the national anthem played: "It's crazy hot, but honestly that race was absolutely crazy.

"I never had that much difference between the slipstream and running alone. It was one of those races where anything could happen. I'm incredibly happy for the team and proud to bring this victory home for the UAE.," Al Dhaheri said.

Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Driver Development Advisor Gwen Lagrue praised the youngster's response after the disappointment of Race 1: "It was a very good race.

"After Race 1 we had a few words together and he delivered a mega race. We are very happy with his development. He is definitely a title contender this year, which was the target, and we are working hard to bring him to the top."

A technical issue during Sunday's second qualifying session left Al Dhaheri starting further down the grid for Race 3, but he recovered to finish ninth and add more championship points to his tally.

The Monza victory strengthens Al Dhaheri's position among the championship contenders and continues his progress within the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Junior Programme.

The Formula Regional European Championship heads next to the Hungaroring in Budapest for Round 5 in early July.