**”Alpine Staff Protest Plans, Norris Reveals Pre-Race Nerves, and Monza Track Changes Stir Controversy: Inside the Italian GP”**

Alpine employees to demonstrate their opposition to the team’s proposals at the Monza grandstand

Crash.net journalist Lewis Larkam reports from Monza on the newest F1 rumors

Here are the newest behind-the-scenes updates from the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, reported directly from the paddock by Lewis Larkam of Crash.net.

Alpine F1 team members are organizing a demonstration at Monza.

Renault's Formula 1 engine team is planning a peaceful demonstration at Monza in response to Alpine's decision to switch to being a Mercedes customer starting in 2026. This protest is scheduled for Friday in the grandstands.

In addition to the demonstration, employees at Renault's Viry-Chatillon facility, where their engines are made, plan to strike during the Italian Grand Prix weekend. They aim to voice their dissatisfaction with the decision to shift production away from France.

An Alpine spokesperson mentioned that they have been informed about some events scheduled for this weekend by the Viry team.

According to their statements, the protests are expected to be peaceful and will not interfere with the team's activities.

The management team at Alpine is currently assessing the transformation project, and they have not yet made a final decision.

"The conversation that began when the project was introduced to the Viry employee representatives in July holds significance for Alpine’s leadership and will continue in the following weeks."

A Safety Car that sustained damage is being taken away from the barriers at the Parabolica turn 🫣#F1 #ItalianGP pic.twitter.com/SJZ6UG2opW— Crash.net – Formula 1 (@CRASH_NET_F1) August 29, 2024

Lando Norris shares his strategies for managing stress and anxiety

Lando Norris from McLaren has disclosed that he “hardly” consumes food or beverages before a grand prix because of the anxiety and stress associated with competing at an elite level.

"There is always pressure. I continue to feel very nervous before qualifying. When it comes to the races, I still experience the same level of excitement and nervousness," he revealed on Thursday.

"I hardly consume any food or beverages on Sundays due to feeling nervous and under pressure."

"I believe it’s all about transforming the situation into something beneficial. How can you prevent it from having a negative impact on you, and instead, leverage it positively to concentrate on what truly matters?"

Whenever you start a qualifying lap, the pressure to perform can be overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Every detail matters, and if you brake a meter too late or make a wrong turn, the attempt is ruined. It's game over.

"However, it's an incredible sensation that I think is hard to find in many other sports or activities. Even though I'm uncertain, I continue to feel nervous and likely always will."

F1 racers express dissatisfaction with modifications to Monza circuit

A number of Formula 1 drivers have expressed their worries regarding modifications to certain kerbs at the Monza track, which has also undergone significant resurfacing.

Modifications have altered the design of certain curbs, whereas others have been entirely substituted.

Mercedes driver George Russell, who serves as the director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), commented that modifications to the kerbs at Ascari will reduce the iconic corner's level of impressiveness.

"I personally find it unfortunate because the track had a lot of character. Take Ascari, for instance; the modifications to the kerbs might make it less striking."

"I really have no idea who is responsible for these decisions. I suspect it's not the FIA but rather the individual circuits. We've consistently emphasized that it's crucial to maintain the unique charm of these classic circuits no matter what."

Daniel Ricciardo, the victor of the 2021 Monza race, commented on the modifications to the kerbs, expressing his dissatisfaction and noting that certain aspects have lost their unique charm.

“Curbs give a track its distinct character. If you install flat curbs…

At the second chicane, there was a narrow strip of concrete followed by gravel. Drivers would aim to keep their wheels on the concrete, utilizing the track without overdoing it.

"It used to have a classic feel, but that's no longer the case. The new surface looks fantastic, but the curbs? They let me down."

Lewis Hamilton is 'thrilled' about creating a bond with Tifosi fans

Lewis Hamilton expressed his immense enthusiasm about fostering a deeper connection with Ferrari’s dedicated supporters, known as the Tifosi, as he prepares for his transition to Maranello next year.

Hamilton commented on the anticipation for this year's reception, noting that he received a very warm welcome at Imola. He shared this in response to a question about the kind of reception he expects to get at Monza, the home race for Ferrari.

"To tell the truth, I'm really thrilled. Each year, coming here and witnessing the event, you stand on the podium and see the Tifosi stretching all the way to Turn 1, and frankly, you see this passion everywhere in the world."

"I'm not entirely sure what to anticipate, but I'm very excited about engaging with that community and embarking on this journey together as we strive to advance the team."

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