Ferrari’s masterpiece in Monza: the Monegasque Charles Leclerc wins the Italian GP thanks to strategy (single stop) and extraordinary tire management, ahead of the two McLarens of Piastri and Norris. Sainz is fourth, ahead of Hamilton and Verstappen, who sees the gap in the World Championship narrowing further.
“At our home, like in 2019. A season of ups and downs, but how beautiful the ups are,” Leclerc said on the radio speaking to the mechanics immediately after crossing the finish line.
Waving the flag at the finish line was former Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero.
Disappointment on the part of Piastri, who finished second after leading for at least half the race: “It hurts, I’m very annoyed. I did many things in the right way, there were many question marks about the strategy. However, it was risky to make only one stop , I’m happy with my pace but I’m disappointed with second place. Today we did something wrong, I contributed”, he said. Even Norris is left with a bitter taste in his mouth: “A one-stop race wasn’t possible for us, I’m obviously disappointed but today they had the best car,” he said.
Italian GP, Chalrles Leclerc and Alex Del Piero arriving on 1 September 2024 (afp)
Leclerc: “As special as the first time”
“It’s an incredible feeling. The first time in my first year at Ferrari was special, I always told myself that if there had been a second time it would have been less special but that’s not the case. This time it was as exciting as the first.” These are Charles Leclerc’s first words after winning the Monza Grand Prix. Then, addressing the fans who gave him an incredible roar as soon as he appeared on the screens: “Go Ferrari”.
“I think our package here in Monza worked well – added Leclerc – we took a step forward but I think McLaren is even stronger. I like the track in Baku and hopefully we can do something good”, he said Leclerc, then thanking the “incredible” fans, the push you give us is fantastic.
