Sebastian Vettel has set himself the task of equalling Ayrton Senna’s record of pole positions in Formula 1 Grand Prix events, and if this weekend is anything to go by, he is well on the way to achieving it. Vettel has secured his tenth pole for the season making it twenty in total over the past two years. Senna put together 36 poles in three years between 1988 and 1990, and with another five races to be run after this weekend, Vettel could achieve that mark halfway through next season. More importantly for the Red Bull team, they have claimed every pole so far this year, and look set to break that record as well.
This weekend the Formula 1 carnival is at Monza, the home of Formula 1 motoring in the eyes of many – at least, the home of Ferrari. Italian fans have not had much to cheer about this weekend with Ferrari qualifying fourth and fifth fastest. While Vettel was able to claim pole, his team mate Mark Webber could only manage sixth, although that will suit his driving style. Hamilton and Button where able to claim second and third on the pole and they will certainly make the race interesting.
In Formula 1 betting, bookmakers have Vettel the clear favourite at 5/4 with Lewis Hamilton next best at 11/4. Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso are at 7/1 leaving Webber to round out the top group at 10/1. The second Ferrari of Felipe Massa is the only other driver in contention at 15/1.
Vettel will be hard to beat from pole – this track does suit fast cars that start from pole, and Vettel certainly fits that category. Hamilton will make life interesting, however, he will need to make up almost half a second if qualifying times are anything to go by. Of more interest will be his driving tactics – he has been roundly criticized for being over zealous, if not down right dangerous in recent races – don’t be surprised if he takes himself and Vettel out of the race.
Our tip, if the race is cleanly run, then Vettel should chalk up another victory. While Hamilton feels that he and Button can score a 1-2 for McLaren, Webber from back in six will love the challenge of steaming home at the finish. We’re tipping a Red Bull 1-2 finish yet again. Like all Grand Prix events, the first two or three laps are going to be very interesting.