Yesterday at 17:30
The Italian Grand Prix turned out to be something of a surprise, as
McLaren's dominance - clearly demonstrated just a week earlier at
Zandvoort - was broken by Max Verstappen's pole position and
subsequent victory. On the eve of the round at Monza, such an
outcome seemed unlikely, particularly the overall performance of
the RB21, which featured a new floor available exclusively to the
Dutchman. The upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix this weekend could
once again present a scenario similar to that seen at the Temple of
Speed, with McLaren potentially less competitive than on other
circuits, while the RB21 may once again benefit from its enhanced
aerodynamic efficiency - thanks largely to its new floor. According
to statements made by Laurent Mekies in Monza, this component
should also be available to Yuki Tsunoda in the second car, thereby
increasing the team's chances of securing a solid haul of points.
Baku is a circuit defined by its long main straight, which favours
a low-downforce configuration, despite the more technical section
that winds through the old town. Many teams tend to run a setup
similar to the one used at Monza, although with slight variations
in terms of wing profiles or dynamic characteristics such as ride
height. It became clear at the Italian Grand Prix that the
modifications made to the RB21 are intended to be permanent for the
remainder of the season, with only minor adjustments to adapt the
car to the various circuits. Looking ahead to the races from now
until Abu Dhabi, it appears likely that tracks such as Baku, Mexico
City, Qatar, and particularly Las Vegas, may once again allow the
RB21 to shine - capitalising on its aerodynamic efficiency without
exposing its weaker traits, such as reduced responsiveness in tight
sections and imprecise balance during direction changes. On the
other hand, it's just as evident that McLaren may demonstrate peak
performance at circuits like Austin, Interlagos, Singapore, and Abu
Dhabi. Influencing the championship picture The recent performance
boost of the RB21 has come too late to overturn the standings in
the constructors' championship, though it could help vault Red Bull
up from its current lowly fourth place. However, it could still
play a more decisive role in the outcome of the drivers' title
battle between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Verstappen could
well have a significant influence on the title fight in either
direction, depending on the finishing positions of the two McLaren
drivers, adding uncertainty to the final phase of the season. It's
also important to consider that mechanical reliability will play an
equally crucial role. As seen with Norris in Zandvoort, component
rotation within the power unit could prove decisive for both
drivers.
