Known in Italy as 'La Pista Magica', Monza is rightly loved by everyone who visits it. The track was on the inaugural F1 calendar in 1950 and the original banking, used by F1 cars until 1961, can still be seen today, giving the circuit a direct link to its glorious past. The track has evolved over the years and become safer, but its high-speed nature continues to get the pulse racing like nowhere else. The layout is predominantly made up of long straights separated by chicanes, so straight-line speed and a good traction are crucial to good lap times. With average speeds hovering around the 160mph mark, and top speeds in excess of 210mph, Monza is the only circuit on the current calendar for which teams produce special low-drag aerodynamic packages. With the passionate Italian fans cheering from the packed grandstands, the Italian Grand Prix has one of the most electric atmospheres of the year. It's a great way to sign off from the European season.
Rob Smedley: "The track should suit our car as it requires a very low downforce package. We expect all the teams to adapt their cars for the nature of the circuit and have specialised Monza aerodynamics. We have worked a lot on the long straights and high drag sensitivity, and so are confident that the aero package will be effective. The track offers a good mix of low and medium speed corners. At this time of year we can expect high temperatures which can cause issues with tyre temperatures on the long straights. Monza is one of the last of the old circuits, in a great setting with some of the most passionate fans in the world."
Valtteri Bottas: "Monza could be a great track for our car and I know we will be busy with our partners, many of whom are coming to Italy. The track is really good fun to drive and it is important to have good straight-line speeds as it has some very quick straights. We have a track specific aero package that we will take, combine that with the strong power-unit and we could have a very competitive weekend."
Felipe Massa: "Monza is a place I enjoy. I love the people and the fans and I hope now despite the fact that I have moved teams that they still support and cheer for me. Monza is a special circuit as it’s so quick, but the corners are quite slow. Aerodynamics are vital at a track like this and that could benefit us over the weekend. I hope to be competitive here as I think the Italian fans would like to see us do well."
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