2024 Italian F1 Grand Prix Analysis by Peter Windsor

Every Ferrari victory at Monza holds a special place in the hearts of the Tifosi, but this one was truly remarkable. Against all expectations, Charles Leclerc expertly managed his hard-compound Pirellis through the second half of the race, outmaneuvering the faster, two-stopping McLaren-Mercedes of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris to clinch a historic win. This triumph was a masterclass in tire management on a day when the left-front tire was particularly susceptible to graining. Leclerc's consistent, flawless pace was the key to victory, delighting a full-capacity Monza crowd.

For McLaren, it was a day of frustration as they had the speed to contend for the win. Starting from pole, Lando Norris slipped to third at the second chicane when his teammate made an unexpected move on the outside. Throughout the race, the McLaren duo relentlessly exchanged fastest laps, but their aggressive tire usage forced them into a second pit stop. Despite their late-race push, Leclerc was already too far ahead. The crowd, 360,000 strong over three days, erupted in celebration. Peter Windsor reflects on a momentous day where Leclerc secured a famous victory and McLaren saw a potential win slip away.

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