Hamilton absent from Monza on Thursday

Lewis Hamilton was spared media and fan duties on Thursday as he reported late to the Italian Grand Prix due to an "unavoidable personal commitment". Mercedes expect the world champion to arrive in Italy on Thursday evening, ahead of a full race weekend at Monza.

The Silver Arrows are on the back foot in Italy, with Ferrari having dominated in Belgium last weekend.

Sebastian Vettel starts the weekend as favourite to bag Ferrari's first win at their home track since 2010.

Mercedes gave away little information about Hamilton's absence, although it is understood that technical meetings will have to be rescheduled as a result of his late arrival.

The Brit will also not face the media before Friday practice, while he is also missing from a fan autograph session.