Dishes or Art: Monza Trophies Attract Attention

– The 2026 Italian Grand Prix in Monza is already causing plenty of discussion before the first engine sound – but less on the track and more on social media. This year, the top three finishers will receive a trophy called “Fragile,” designed by the Italian artist duo vedovamazzei. The object visually consists of stacked cups and bowls.

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While the artists want to symbolize the transience and fragility of success with this, the fans’ judgment on the net is decidedly more humorous: reactions on social media are pouring in.

Many users mock that the trophy looks exactly like the dirty dishes piling up on their kitchen sink at home when the dishwasher hasn’t been loaded again.

But what do the main actors of the weekend say about it? After all, it is the drivers who are supposed to lift the silver bowl ensemble on Sunday on probably the most emotional podium in the world.

Antonelli thought it was a fake trophy

Kimi Antonelli initially appears completely baffled by the unusual design in the paddock. “That thing with the bowls? At first, I thought it was fake, but then I realized it was real!” the Mercedes driver admits honestly.

After the initial shock, the Italian came to like the concept behind the sculpture: “Then I understood the meaning behind it: It stands for the fragility of victory and the fact that you always have to earn it again.”

“I like the idea, and although the shape is unusual, I really hope I get the trophy in my hands on Sunday and can take it home. It will be damn hard, but I will try,” said Antonelli, who will have to start from the very back due to an engine penalty.

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Between a matter of taste and anticipation

Gabriel Bortoleto is somewhat more reserved. The Brazilian rates the extraordinary design decision as bold, but “Fragile” will probably no longer be his personal favorite piece. “It’s something completely different. I think sometimes daring something different is not so bad,” he says.

“But to be honest: It’s not my favorite trophy and doesn’t quite suit my taste. But hey, if I get it, I’ll still be overjoyed – don’t get me wrong!” Bortoleto smiles. In the Audi, it would be a sensation if he were to get one of the trophies on Sunday.

Ferrari star Charles Leclerc also does not necessarily belong to the target group of modern sculpture art but would by no means refuse the trophy in his home trophy cabinet. “As for the trophy: I’m not a huge fan, but I would still be extremely happy to have it on Sunday,” explains the Monegasque.

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“This is the most special podium of the whole year, so I will happily raise the trophy,” said the Ferrari driver before the home race.

When asked about the unusual additional prize for the polesitter, Leclerc also appears surprised – and pragmatic: “I didn’t know anything about the pole position ring yet, but I like it, hopefully I’ll get it! I already wear a very important ring on my left hand, but there is definitely room for a second one on my right hand.”

Whether artwork, kitchen stack, or collector’s item: If the champagne flows on Sunday, the visual pile of dishes will probably be the most beautiful service in the world for the winner.

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