The Grand Prix in Monza – a chance for Ferrari. Can they secure a victory?
Formula 1 is not losing its popularity – more and more people are following this sport. The roar of engines, the screech of tires, and a sea of emotions. Behind us are 15 stages, dominated by two guys from McLaren. Now it's time for the oldest, one of the two Grands Prix that have been held since the very first day of Formula 1. Welcome to Monza! To the track where Ferrari has taken first place 20 times and is ready to do it again, if no problems arise. And indeed, there are problems.
Italians lack a stable driver
Ferrari is experiencing significant issues with their drivers. They seem to have star names, top racers, but so far only one victory and not many podiums. It is already clear that despite all the hype and noise, Charles Leclerc is considered the number one driver. But the Monegasque is experiencing depression. It worsened after the retirement in the Netherlands. Photos of a sad Leclerc sitting on a hill are not just somewhere on the internet, but in his social media. It seems Charles has resigned himself to the fact that he will not become a world champion in this team, but leaving will be difficult for him. Yes, winning Grands Prix and taking poles is great, but one needs to get the world cup or at least the constructors' cup.
But for now, we see a sad Leclerc, who barely makes it to the podium. Last year he won Monza, and for Ferrari, this track is home. But will they be able to compete with McLaren, which on this track, with many straights, will not let anyone ahead?
Hamilton complains about brakes
“I am braking with the engine for the first time,” said Lewis. The Briton is perhaps the only driver who pays so much attention to brakes. At Mercedes, he perfected the entire braking system to his ideal, working together with the guys from “Carbon Industries.” They braked excellently in the first phase, heated up as needed, and Hamilton took turns confidently. But at Ferrari, the brakes are from “Brembo,” and they are completely different.
Hamilton had a similar story at Mercedes when he came there from McLaren. He said he felt uncertain, the brakes were not right. But by working on the entire system, they managed to reach the ideal. This season may not be the most successful for Hamilton, but soon he will adjust the brakes as he needs, tune them with the team, and everything will be perfect. Meanwhile, at Monza, Lewis will debut on this track with his new team, and all eyes will be on him.
McLaren sold out, but it won't stop them from winning
McLaren made a perfect advertising deal: sold the name, sold the spots, sold a bit of rights, and earned a billion dollars. Now the team is financially secure for a long time and won't have to fear regulation changes next year, as there will be money for new features. Meanwhile, we watch as the team and its two drivers dominate the entire Formula. Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are the leaders of the individual standings, and they will be the ones fighting for the world cup. In the constructors' cup, everything is clear – McLaren is far ahead, and it no longer matters how the rest of the season goes.
At Monza, McLaren last won once in 2021, when the car that finished first was driven by Daniel Ricciardo. Perhaps now another Australian will win this Grand Prix.
“We are talking with Mercedes and Ferrari”
Max Verstappen's father is once again creating newsworthy moments. The Dutchman stated that he has been in talks with Mercedes and Ferrari regarding his son's future. Max Verstappen and Red Bull is a captivating saga for the media, but it hardly enhances the image of Formula 1 itself. The team’s losses are significant, despite the attention they receive. This season, Max will not become the world champion, but that was clear even last year. The car is too weak, even though adjustments are being made. However, they are so insignificant that they make no difference.
Changes in regulations are to be expected. If the constructors can surprise Max with their upgrades and the management is willing to invest in new features, Verstappen might stay. But the internal team climate issue also needs to be resolved, as things are not going well there. Where would you like to see Verstappen next season?
What to expect from Monza?
Yes, the track in Monza is a true marvel. Long straights and 90-degree turns – all of this delights the fans. The drivers also prepare in a special way for this track. However, McLaren's dominance is such that it’s hard to imagine a team that could challenge them on this track. So, Oscar Piastri or Lando Norris will be competing for the top spot. But Charles Leclerc won’t give up the race easily. Where risk is needed, he will take it, as fans won’t forgive him for cowardice.
Of course, much depends on the qualifying and the weather. It’s not out of the question that McLaren could go off track, but the likelihood of such an event is minimal, though not zero. Monza promises to be an exciting spectacle, as always. And we will be following this race along with you!
