Brundle: McLaren Swap, 'Happier' Hamilton, 'Tremendous' Red Bull Turnaround at Monza

Why it matters:

Monza showcased not only record-breaking F1 speeds but also a significant Red Bull performance shift, Lewis Hamilton's renewed mindset, and critical team dynamics at McLaren.

The big picture:

F1's relentless technical progress continues, making cars faster than ever, as seen in Monza's record average speed. This race also highlighted key driver performances and strategic decisions, setting the stage for future events.

Red Bull's Dominance & Hamilton's Resurgence:

• Max Verstappen secured pole and an easy win, demonstrating a 'tremendous turnaround' for Red Bull after struggling at Monza last year. Their car showed exceptional single-lap and long-run pace.
• Lewis Hamilton, despite a grid penalty, drove through the field, appearing 'more comfortable' and 'happier' in the car, having adjusted his mindset to make the best of his current machinery.

McLaren's Pit Stop & Team Order:

• Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri lined up P2 and P3. Norris was slightly faster, but a pit stop issue (5.9s) for him after Piastri's fast stop (1.9s) led to Piastri emerging ahead.
• McLaren then asked Piastri to yield to Norris, a decision Martin Brundle believes was 'the right thing to do' given the team's cohesion and prior agreements.
• Piastri's impressive navigation of high-risk opening laps, especially his move on Charles Leclerc, was noted.

Bearman's Penalty Controversy:

• Ollie Bearman received a 10-second penalty and two penalty points for contact with Carlos Sainz, bringing him close to a race ban.
• Brundle considered the penalty 'unfair,' describing it as a 'typical Monza racing incident.' He stressed that contact, regardless of fault, costs points and podiums.

What's next:

F1 heads to Baku for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on September 19-21.