Verstappen's Monza Masterclass Hints at Future Opportunities Against McLaren

Max Verstappen's dominant victory at the Italian Grand Prix has reignited discussions about Red Bull's potential to challenge McLaren in the latter part of the F1 season, particularly on upcoming street circuits. Former F1 test driver Matteo Bobbi highlighted the Dutchman's exceptional performance at Monza, which saw him finish over 19 seconds clear of McLaren's Lando Norris.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's commanding win at Monza was a significant turnaround for Red Bull, which had a challenging weekend at the circuit just a year prior. This victory showcases the team's improved package for low-downforce tracks and Verstappen's unique ability to extract maximum performance, even with aggressive car setups. It hints at potential shifts in the competitive landscape for specific race types.

The Details:

• Verstappen secured only his third victory of the season in a year largely dominated by McLaren, underlining the surprise nature of his performance.
• Matteo Bobbi, speaking to RacingNews365, echoed Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff's praise, stating that Verstappen's drive "makes the other silly," especially given Red Bull's bold aerodynamic adjustments.
• Red Bull made a crucial alteration to their rear wing level before qualifying, opting for an "extreme" trim in FP3. Verstappen described the car as being "on the edge everywhere," particularly in sector two, yet he masterfully managed it.
• Despite McLaren's general advantage in high-temperature conditions, Bobbi suggested that upcoming street circuits like Baku and Las Vegas could favor Red Bull. McLaren itself has expressed doubts about their pace at these venues.

What's next:

The F1 calendar includes several street tracks where the unique characteristics of the Red Bull package and Verstappen's driving style could present renewed opportunities. While the championship title race might be out of reach, these potential battles promise to deliver thrilling finishes and intense competition between the two front-running teams.