The classic race at Monza is coming up this weekend. McLaren have won the last two races, but Mercedes are still at the top of the table. Several teams are bringing upgrades to Monza, while it is also expected that some drivers will take grid penalties for changing engines.
Overall, it should be a really exciting race. Monza has delivered some surprises before, and this year could be another one. Here’s a quick preview, and as we get closer to the sessions, our usual betting suggestions will be posted.
Monza build-up
- Kimi Antonelli will change his engine and start from the back of the grid.
- George Russell was urged by Mercedes to do the same, but nothing final has been announced regarding an engine change on his side.
- Isack Hadjar is still out: That means Liam Lawson gets another race for Red Bull, while Yuki Tsunoda fills in at Racing Bulls.
- Hot weather, around 30C, is expected on Saturday and Sunday. Very low risk of rain.
- Monza could be a ‘terrible track’ for these new cars that need to recharge power constantly.
- Red Bull could be very competitive here due to having the most powerful ICE.
Bets for the weekend
Will be posted here (and also shared on X) after betting markets open. Stay tuned and check back in a few hours before qualifying and race!
Race bets
Antonelli to beat Russell @ 5.13 (0.5u) (Pinnacle)
A possible longshot. Antonelli starts from the back of the grid, but he has a fresh engine and should be able to advance. We’ve seen Russell have issues in several races this year, so anything can happen. With that in mind, the price is great. Fair odds 4.34.
Albon to beat Sainz @ 3.48 (1u) (Pinnacle)
Albon also makes an engine change and starts from the back. He’s had some great races at Monza before, and Sainz has really dropped off recently, so it’s not unreasonable to think Albon can catch him. Fair odds 3.00.
Norris to beat Piastri @ 2.10 (1.5u) (Stake)
Fairly unlucky qualifying session by Norris who should otherwise be faster than Piastri. A penalty for Oscar brings them a bit closer on the grid, so Lando just needs to have a nice race. Fair odds 1.88.
Leclerc to beat Hamilton @ 1.657 (1.5u) (Pinnacle)
When Leclerc starts ahead of his teammate, he tends to finish ahead as well. It was close between the two in qualifying, but I like the improvements Leclerc has made recently, and this is one of his stronger tracks. Fair odds 1.56.
