MONOPOLY Hammy takes his Chance in Italy

TED MACUALEY and achievements as euphoric and after a total wipe-out of his forlorn chasers yesterday he said: “I can’t believe I am now talked about in the same breath as Senna and Fangio.

“It is all so unbelievable and I am on cloud nine. I am so proud to be likened to such fantastic champions. It is phenomenal. I can’t get over it. I can’t begin to say how happy I am. I am really up for this grand prix.

“I’ll be giving it my all to live up to the reputation that is developing around me.”

Four-time champ Sebastian Vettel, placed third on the grid in his Ferrari, joined the flood of praise for the driver destined to draw level with him as a crown holder. He said: “Lewis is in a world of his own.” Hamilton (below), a winner at Monza in 2012, 2014 and 2015, could celebrate his 50th win in his 180th grand prix. And he is hell-bent on staging another HAMAZING spectacle for the sell-out crowd around the Royal Park circuit. The reigning Formula 1 king added: “Standing on the podium as a winner, looking out over a vast sea of fans, has to be one of the most incredible experiences that any sportsman could possibly have.

“I have raced here since being a kid in so many categories and it is impossible not to love the place. It grows on you. And winning in front of such a knowledgeable and appreciative crowd is right up there at the top of personal pleasure.

“The atmosphere, the speed, the history and the whole sensation of being a winner at Monza is just fantastic. The place is so iconic in every way.

“I had the perfect weekend here a year ago and if I can repeat that it would be amazing. It is game-on for me right now.

“I can’t wait to get out there give it my best for all those fans who have been so supportive all season.”

Jenson Button will start 12th on the grid, after his announcement that he will take a year out of the sport next term and be replaced by McLaren’s reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne.