Video: Mansell and Piquet’s crazy duel at Monza

30th March 2023

James King

Within 0.01 seconds of this video, you’re catapulted back to a very special era of motorsport. We’re at the evocative Autodromo Nazionale di Monza circuit and we’re witnessing a Williams battle for the lead... pause for Gen Z shock. These turbo-charged F1 cars of 1986 had a ridiculous power-to-weight ratio which made them incredibly lively beasts. This particular battle for the lead was between Nelson Piquet and special guest of the 2022 Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard, Nigel Mansell.

Il Leone is leading with Piquet hot on his tail, and the Brazilian commentator gets rather excited as his countryman hunts Mansell down and attempts to grab the lead. After a lap of mild threats, Piquet bravely throws it up the inside of Curva Grande, an astonishing move that will definitely leave your heart in your mouth, and manages to hold on for a fantastic win.

Looking back at this era, you can see just how much of an effort it was to pass a competitive car, even on the circuits with long straights. Do you prefer this era, or do you prefer the DRS era with more swapping of position?

Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: This is secretly the most incredible place at Goodwood

Image courtesy of Motorsport Images.