Looking Ahead
Two weeks stand between Formula 1 and its next classic circuit destination, the mighty Monza. Host of the Italian Grand Prix since Formula 1s inception, it is a beautifully nostalgic, power-crazed embodiment of the sport, made up of delicious high-speed corners and straights, accompanied by heavy braking zones from top speeds into attacking chicanes. High power and low downforce are key, and the Ferrari team will be looking to strike back in front of thousands of home fans with the scarlet cars. The order will likely be similar to Spa, with Red Bull looking dangerously fast and Mercedes somewhat on the back foot with their minimal package. It does mean McLaren might be able to steal more points on Force India after their disappointing Spa pace, and Torro Rosso should be in good form with their strong high-speed characteristics and Ferrari engine. However after Spa, some teams will want to respond, such as Force India and Lotus, and Ferrari will fancy their chances if they can get nearer the front of the grid in qualifying. With temperatures guaranteed to be higher in Italy than Belgium, things might just turn around again to offer us a thrilling spectacle at a spiritual home for Formula 1 that has long echoed to the sounds of motor racing.