Italian journalist Leo Turini is convinced that the end of yesterday’s Grand Prix in Monza would have been different if the race management had decided to stop it with red flags, and following the evacuation of Daniel Riccardo’s car to restart – then everyone who gathered in the stands would see a bright fight in last circles. Even if it didn’t affect the results in any way.
Last year in Abu Dhabi, Michael Masi had to stop the race with red flags. He did not do this, and it was a mistake – I immediately wrote regarding it then.
However, Masi was right regarding one thing: he did not allow the most interesting championship of the last twenty years to end behind the safety car.
“It’s called auto racing,” he replied to critics at the time.
At Monza, his successors forgot all regarding it. Although, as soon as it became clear that it was impossible to quickly evacuate Riccardo’s car, it would be enough to show a red flag.
But the Grand Prix, held in the year of the 100th anniversary of the circuit in Monza, finished at a snail’s pace, and this was wrong, first of all, in relation to all the fans who filled the stands of the track. And also in relation to everyone who has an idea of what normal motorsport should be like.
Although I don’t think the results of the race would have been different even if the scenario I’m talking regarding had been implemented. Admittedly, the Red Bull car piloted by Max Verstappen was faster than Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari.
By the way, all the disputes regarding whether it was necessary to invite the Monegasque to the pit stop so early or not, only from misunderstanding. Charles would have lost anyway.
There can be no doubt that the championship will once more have a worthy winner this year, and all those who booed Verstappen at Monza have only demonstrated their own ignorance.
But following this Sunday, the management of Formula 1 must conclude that they have an obligation – and I insist that it is their duty – to show respect for people who love motorsport. Of course, not at the expense of safety.
