F1 Italian GP 2023: Everything you need to know

Following the closely contested Dutch GP, the Formula 1 circus now shifts to Monza (Italian GP), home of Ferrari. Despite Ferrari’s forgettable season so far, the team would surely be looking to give their Tifosi something to cheer about.

Possibly one of the best racing tracks on the calendar, and built in 1922, the Autodromo Nazionale Monza was the world’s third purpose-built race track, coming after Brooklands in the UK and Indianapolis in the US. The track, spanning 3.6 km, boasts long straights, tight chicanes, and drivers spending 76% of lap time and 83% of lap distance at full throttle.

Breaking Vettel’s record

It’s no secret that Max Verstappen’s dominance in the 2023 season has been nothing but extraordinary, with the Dutchman levelling Vettel’s record of 8 consecutive Grand Prix victories. However, with the Italian GP coming up next, it’s safe to say that Max would be looking to surpass the record and send a strong message on Ferrari’s home turf. 

Aston Martin’s comeback

Aston Martin’s fall from the second fastest car on track to being behind McLaren and Mercedes before the summer break was a scary revelation for Fernando Alonso, who had become a regular on the podium with Max Verstappen. 

But, after much-needed upgrades, the team appears to have reclaimed its status of being second-fastest as Alonso secured second place in the Dutch GP and maintained pace with Verstappen. However, it is important to note that the circuit’s high-speed nature might pose a challenge due to the AMR23’s traditional abundance of downforce.

Although Mercedes lagged behind Aston Martin in the Dutch GP due partly to erratic strategy calls, Lewis Hamilton mentioned in a recent interview that they are closely matched in terms of pace, and the team is in contention for podiums. 

Ferrari’s need to shine

Although Sainz managed to get a respectable P5, it is safe to say that Ferrari had a disastrous Dutch GP, with questionable strategy and pit stops. Additionally, the fact that Leclerc had to retire after getting floor damage from a collision with Oscar Piastri made the situation even worse. 

“Unfortunately, after Oscar [Piastri] and I touched, I had damage on my floor, and the issue got worse throughout the race, ultimately leading to us retiring. It’s not been the weekend we wished for overall, but I’m already looking forward to our home race in Monza next week,” said Leclerc.

Therefore, as the Italian GP approaches, and with the team commemorating the Le Mans victory with a special livery and race suit, Ferrari’s drivers and management must elevate their performance. The team would most likely be looking to beat Aston Martin and have at least one driver on the podium, if not both. 

Williams could surprise

Considering Monza’s status as the fastest track on the circuit and Williams’ reputation for high speed, they could present a formidable challenge in the midfield. The team already had a strong showing in the Dutch GP despite Albon saying that the track doesn’t favour their car. 

Additionally, the Italian GP could offer teammate Logan Sargent an opportunity to finally secure his maiden points.

Ricciardo Missing the Italian GP

Following an unfortunate wrist injury during the Dutch GP, Daniel Ricciardo is set to miss the Italian GP as well. He recently underwent surgery to mend his broken wrist.

“Now it’s all about recovery. For a normal human being that would be a couple of months. For a Grand Prix driver, it’s usually much shorter. We need to see how the recovery goes, but certainly not Italy,” said Horner.

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