Autosport Plus

The 2005 Italian Grand Prix Preview

Although the Tifosi will be hoping for a Ferrari revival at home, the Italian Grand Prix is likely to be another battle between Renault and McLaren as the season heads for a its climax. Tom Keeble previews the race and rates the teams' chances of success ahead of the fifteenth round of the 2005 season

Tom Keeble Aug 31, 2005, 12:42 PM

With low downforce circuits scarce on the calendar, the Italian Grand Prix at Autodromo di Monza represents one of the most original races of the year, seeing the teams optimise their cars for speeds up to 225mph. The specialist nature of the circuit, considered a home race by Ferrari, ought to see the tyre manufacturers showing a closer level of performance than in Turkey, offering the tifosi a hope of something to cheer this weekend. The weather prediction is for hot temperatures, with a 60% chance of showers on race day.

Analysis

Despite being slowed down over the years, the circuit retains the essential character of speed, with long, fast straights rewarding outright power and efficient braking. A good lap here requires a powerful engine to deliver on the straights accompanied by low drag to maximise acceleration, good mechanical balance to counter the lack of downforce and effective brake cooling handle the frequent big stops.