1980 Italian Grand Prix Pole Position
Held at Monza since 1922, except in 1980 when it was held at Imola.
The Italian Grand Prix is the fifth oldest national motor racing Grand Prix, having been held since 1921. Since 2013, the Grand Prix has been held the most times, with 95 editions as of 2025. Every Formula One Italian Grand Prix in the World Championship era has been held at Monza except in 1980, when it was held at Imola.
Quick Facts
- Engine type
- Turbocharged V6 (Renault-Gordini EF1)
Lore & Background
The first Italian Grand Prix took place on 4 September 1921 at a 10.7-mile circuit near Montichiari. The race is more closely associated with the course at Monza, built in 1922. The 1928 race saw the worst accident in motor racing history until the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans, killing driver Emilio Materassi and 27 spectators. In 1933, three top drivers were killed during the Monza Grand Prix, a Formula Libre race held after the Italian Grand Prix, on what became known as the 'Black Day of Monza'.
Reader's Guide
The Italian Grand Prix counted toward the World Manufacturers' Championship from 1925 to 1928 and toward the European Championship from 1931 to 1932 and from 1935 to 1938. It was additionally designated the European Grand Prix seven times between 1923 and 1967. Four editions before the World Championship were held in places other than Monza: Montichiari (1921), Livorno (1937), Milan (1947) and Turin (1948). The event is due to take place at the Monza Circuit until at least 2031.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who actually took pole at the 1980 Italian Grand Prix?
Nelson Piquet secured the spot driving a Brabham BT49, which is notable because it was not a Renault or Alpine vehicle. This result often surprises fans expecting a French constructor to lead the grid during that era.
Why is this race mentioned in Alpine F1 history?
The event illustrates the competitive tension between naturally aspirated and turbo engines during the formative years of the team's predecessor lineage. It serves as a benchmark for understanding the technological challenges Renault faced before becoming Alpine.
What engine powered the car that secured pole position?
Piquet utilized a Cosworth DFV V8 engine, which was naturally aspirated rather than turbocharged like his rivals. This choice allowed him to set the fastest qualifying lap at the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza.
How did René Arnoux perform compared to the pole-sitter?
René Arnoux qualified in second place behind Piquet while driving the turbocharged Renault RE20. Although close, the French driver could not overtake the Brabham for the top grid position.
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