Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has criticized Mercedes’ strategy during the Italian Grand Prix, arguing the team compromised George Russell’s race victory chances by failing to double-stack their drivers under the Virtual Safety Car.
Montoya Questions Mercedes Pit Strategy at Monza
Mercedes secured a dominant 1-2 finish at Monza, led by home favorite Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The rookie recovered from 19th on the grid to become the first Italian winner at the circuit since 1966. However, Russell controlled the early phases of the race and appeared the primary candidate for victory before a mid-race Virtual Safety Car period altered the complexion of the Grand Prix.
The British driver was leading at the time but was left out on track while Antonelli pitted. The Italian subsequently sliced through the field and overtook his teammate for the win.
Montoya: Russell Should Have Received Priority Stop
Speaking on F1 TV’s post-race show, Montoya argued Mercedes should have given Russell the priority pitstop.
“He was leading and he should have had the priority on the pitstop. When that virtual safety car came, at that point, it’s quicker to stop than staying out. They should have stopped him, they should have double-stacked him, and he should have stopped ahead of Antonelli,” the Colombian explained.
“And I’m not saying Antonelli wouldn’t still catch him and win the race, but it would have been a really close fight like we saw earlier on. It would have been a really cool race at the end for all of us.”
Wolff Defends Strategy, Cites Tyre Constraints
Team principal Toto Wolff addressed suggestions the Brackley outfit’s strategy favoured Antonelli.
“The two-stop was the best but we didn’t think it was the case, so that was good for him actually,” he told Sky Sports F1 after the race.
“But today there was nothing that would have stopped him [Antonelli]. George fought with worn-out tools at the end, so I’m really happy for the one-two.”
When asked if there were any alternative strategic options for Russell, Wolff added:
“No, George was on the hard and we needed to go on the one-stop so there was no chance.”
