Time On Track, Episode 15 – Monza

Time On Track returns to discuss round 15 of the 2023 Formula 1 season, which saw rain free racing happen around Italy’s historic Monza circuit. Ferrari threw everything but the kitchen sink at their car this week to bring the fight to Red Bull around their home track, and they damn near succeeded. While the inevitable 10th straight Verstappen victory indeed came to pass, Carlos Sainz managed to lead the first 19 laps from pole, providing us our first bit of meaningful racing at the front of the pack this season. Sergio managed to nab P2, but Carlos earned a P3 finish for his heroic drive, as well as the well deserved driver of the day award.

Elsewhere on track, Mercedes again struggled to nail strategy throughout the weekend, though managed to finish P5 and P6 after the dust settled, keeping a familiar looking top half of the grid to Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes. The McLaren cars continue to look strong, though an unfortunate moment of contact between Hamilton and Piastri meant a finish outside of the points for the young Aussie driver (Hamilton was handed a 5 second penalty for his part in the incident). Another disappointing day for Alpine saw both cars finish outside of the points, and Lance Stroll continues his search for pace.

We’ll return later this month to cover round 16 action in Singapore happening September 17th, so stay tuned. In the meantime, congrats to Max Verstappen on his record breaking 10th consecutive victory, and Red Bull’s 15th consecutive victory.