McCullough is set to take over from Lambiase at Red Bull.

      As Verstappen is anticipated to create a surprise at Monza

      Red Bull has announced that Tom McCullough will join the team as its new Head of Racing starting in 2027. It was previously reported that he would be replacing Gianpiero Lambiase, who is set to transition to McLaren. "We’re thrilled to welcome Tom to the team at the start of 2027 and are eager for the extensive experience and knowledge he will bring to the position," stated Red Bull.

      This announcement coincides with Red Bull's arrival at Monza, filled with renewed hope that Max Verstappen might deliver one of the season's unexpected moments. Former F1 driver Christijan Albers told De Telegraaf that the low-downforce nature of the track should greatly benefit the RB22. "It’s virtually impossible to predict how the Italian GP weekend will unfold," he began. "However, I am confident that Red Bull can compete strongly with Max, as they excel on low-downforce circuits."

      Verstappen had a strong performance at Spa, another track where straight-line speed is crucial. "Max’s car is quick on the straights," Albers mentioned, "so I believe they will be competitive in Italy." He further commented, "I think Max can achieve one of the significant surprises of the 2026 season at Monza."

      Albers also pointed out that championship leader Kimi Antonelli will be serving a grid penalty due to the ADUO upgrade. "In my opinion, Max has a good opportunity in Monza, particularly because Antonelli will have to fulfill his penalty for new engine components," the Dutchman added.

      However, Albers predicts that after Monza, Verstappen’s challenge for the title will become considerably tougher. "I believe it will come down to a showdown between Kimi Antonelli in the Mercedes and Lando Norris in the McLaren." Norris will arrive at Monza with victories in his last two races in Hungary and Zandvoort, but McLaren is cautioning that the competitive landscape at the Italian circuit may differ.

      Technical director Neil Houldey remarked, "We are aware that we have had a fast car in recent races, but we aren’t taking anything for granted. This track is quite unlike the previous ones, and we should expect a hierarchy that may not align with what was observed in Hungary and the Netherlands."

      McLaren also announced that its H-Wing – its variant of the 'Macarena' rotating rear-wing concept – will make its race debut at Monza after testing in Hungary. "This weekend, we have brought what we believe is necessary to remain competitive, including a new low-drag rear wing specification, which features the first use of our H-Wing," Houldey explained. The team has indicated that the name of the system is a purposeful nod to the famed 2010 F-duct, with the "H" derived from Etihad Airways branding on the rear wing.