Piastri reveals bizarre Monza speed anomaly

Oscar Piastri has revealed a surprising simulation finding ahead of the Italian Grand Prix: McLaren's MCL40 could actually record a lower top speed on Monza's main straight than it did at the Hungaroring. The reason isn't aerodynamics, but energy management — a defining challenge of Formula 1's new-generation cars.

Why it matters:

Monza, the 'Temple of Speed', has traditionally rewarded raw straight-line speed. But the 2026 regulations have shifted the equation. With limited opportunities to harvest electrical energy on a circuit dominated by full-throttle running, teams must carefully balance deployment and regeneration. Piastri's comments highlight how even the lowest-drag package can be neutralized by energy constraints.

The details:

• Piastri said simulations showed the car was "actually quicker on the front straight in Hungary than here," which "doesn't make a whole lot of sense" — but the issue is a lack of energy to spend.
• The trade-off: If the harvest limit were higher, the car would suffer severe "super clipping" at the end of straights, potentially losing 30-40 km/h. Lower the harvest limit, and top speed drops.
• McLaren is introducing its rotating H-Wing rear wing for the first time this weekend, but even that may not unlock extra speed without more energy.
• Piastri expects the race to be "chaos," especially at the start, as different deployment strategies create unpredictable outcomes.

Between the lines:

Piastri's Monza speed comments come amid a wider struggle. He was just 11 points behind Lando Norris after Belgium, but that gap has grown to 55 after Norris won in Hungary and the Netherlands. Piastri retired from the Hungarian GP and finished sixth in Zandvoort, admitting his race pace remains an area to understand.

What's next:

Piastri says the team has ideas to try, both in car setup and his driving approach. With practice starting Friday, Monza offers a chance to reset — but the energy puzzle could make it an eventful weekend for everyone.