Mercedes’ lack of a double‑stack pit stop for George Russell during the virtual safety car at Monza handed Kimi Antonelli the advantage needed to secure a first‑ever Italian Grand Prix win and a 1‑2 finish for the team.
Montoya’s Critique
Former F1 champion Juan Pablo Montoya slammed the strategy, insisting that “Russell was leading and should have had the priority pitstop. When the virtual safety car came, stopping would have been faster than staying out, they should have double‑stacked him and he should have gone ahead of Antonelli.”
Toto Wolff Defends Decision
Team principal Toto Wolff told Sky Sports F1 that “the two‑stop strategy was best,” adding that “Russell was on hard tyres and we needed a one‑stop. There was no alternative.” He stressed that “Antonelli had nothing to lose, and George fought with worn‑out tools at the end, so I’m really happy with the 1‑2.”
Race Context
Antonelli recovered from 19th on the grid and, after pitting during the VSC, passed Russell to claim victory. The race ended with Mercedes topping the podium, but the debate over the split‑track decision continues among experts and fans alike.
"