Wolff: Monza ‘a perfect track’ to test F1’s new technical directive

Monza is the perfect circuit to put Formula 1’s new engine technical directive into action, according to Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.

From this weekend, teams will no longer be permitted to run the ‘party mode’ engine setting during qualifying, as the FIA looks to group the field closer together on a Saturday.

Mercedes has dominated qualifying sessions this year, taking unchallenged pole positions at all seven World Championship events so far in 2020.

After another dominant display at Spa-Francorchamps last weekend, the sport heads to Monza and Mugello for an Italian double-header, with Wolff noting that qualifying will be critical this weekend at Monza despite the high-speed sections that present overtaking opportunities in the race.

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“The second and third races of this triple-header take us to Italy, with stops in Monza and Mugello,” Wolff said.

“The famous ‘Temple of Speed’ is a real low-drag, low-downforce circuit where straight-line speed is crucial for a good result.

“The race was often won from pole in the past, which makes qualifying particularly important in Italy.”

However, Mercedes will have to contest the session without their usual engine advantage, with Wolff stating the Brackley-based squad is looking forward to the challenge of the new situation.

“Both the power sensitivity and the importance of qualifying make Monza a perfect track to test the impact of a new Technical Directive which comes into effect at the Italian Grand Prix,” Wolff said.

“TD/037-20 limits the usage of engine modes, requiring teams to run the same ICE mode in qualifying and the race.

“It will be intriguing to see how it affects the absolute and relative competitive order on Saturday and Sunday; we’re excited to take on the challenge and turn it to our advantage.”