Verstappen Dominates Monza, Ferrari Reflects on Lauda Legacy
MONZA, Italy - Max Verstappen secured a commanding victory at the Italian Grand Prix on September 3, 2023, further solidifying his championship lead.The win, tho, unfolded against a backdrop of remembrance for Ferrari’s storied past, particularly the legacy of Niki Lauda.
While Ferrari hoped for a home win, the team finished fourth (Charles Leclerc) and sixth (Lewis Hamilton).The race marked the 50th anniversary of Lauda’s first World Championship title with Ferrari, won on September 7, 1975, which secured the championship early for the Austrian driver. He later triumphed with Ferrari in 1977 and with McLaren in 1984.Ferrari honored Lauda by running a car reminiscent of his 1975 championship-winning vehicle, and both Leclerc and Hamilton sported helmets paying tribute to the motorsport legend, who died in 2019. hamilton, who had a close relationship with Lauda, recreated a photo of Lauda taken after his 1975 title win, posting it with the caption ”Dedicato a niki” (“Dedicated to Niki”). He stated, “I am glad that we can honor niki this weekend with a special design and helmet, even if it always feels like he is still with me.”
Despite the tributes, Ferrari faces challenges with Hamilton’s performance. Team boss Frédéric Vasseur acknowledged underestimating the veteran’s adjustment, noting, “sometimes he goes too hard by car, sometimes with himself. He demands a lot. From others, but also of himself. I can live with that.”
Historically, former Ferrari drivers achieved success more quickly: Michael Schumacher won in his seventh race with the team (1996), Fernando Alonso at his premiere (2010), and Sebastian Vettel on his second attempt (2015). Hamilton’s 16th attempt in Monza puts him on track to possibly set a negative record,surpassed only by Didier Pironi,who never reached a podium finish in 1981/82. Ferrari’s patience with Hamilton, whose salary is in the double-digit millions, may be limited.Wurz F3 season Recap
Charlie Wurz concluded the Formula 3 championship with two third-place finishes in sprint races and a fourth-place result in the Hungarian main race, finishing 13th overall while driving for Trident.
