Dan: Would Rosberg or Maldanado have been punished for driving like Verstappen in Spa? Probably...... 

Andrew Benson
Chief F1 writer at Monza

Image source, Getty Images

The much-anticipated heated debate about Max Verstappen’s defensive driving tactics failed to materialise in the drivers’ briefing on Friday.

The drivers had all heard that FIA F1 director Charlie Whiting had had a little chat with the Dutchman in the morning and given him a “gentle warning”, as Red Bull team boss Christian Horner put it, that any repeat of his late move against Kimi Raikkonen could result in a black-and-white flag for unsportsmanlike conduct - one step away from a disqualification.

Whether Verstappen learns remains to be seen. But three-time champion Sir Jackie Stewart believes he will. “I think he’ll come around,” Stewart said. “He needs a wee talk-to. But that will happen within the team. But he’s a huge natural talent.” 

Image source, Getty Images

So, what to do about Maxstappen?

He's been into the headmaster's office. Some of the bigger kids have put him in his place.

But should he take it on board and tone down his aggressive style?

Or is mad Max exactly what F1 needs - a young superstar not afraid to put noses out of joint?

Give us your thoughts on what Verstappen's approach should be using #bbcf1 on Twitter.

Image source, EPA

...he's a very naughty boy.

After annoying some of his colleagues, particularly Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen, last week, Max Verstappen was called in for a little chatette with the big dog yesterday.

Race director Charlie Whiting gave the 18-year-old a "gentle warning" about his on-track conduct.

Verstappen has been criticised for aggressive defensive tactics (oxymoron), with his a move against Raikkonen on the Kemmel straight in Belgium a prime example.

"Charlie was keen to show him a video of Spa. It was a gentle warning," Horner said.

"Like any 18-year-old the criticism [from other drivers] seems to be going in one ear and out the other. He really doesn't care.

"We're all here talking about it and it's that spirit he's got that is bringing fans trackside."

Andrew Benson
Chief F1 writer at Monza

Image source, EPA

Lewis Hamilton was a for-Monza chunky 0.2 seconds quicker than team-mate Nico Rosberg on Friday, and the battle between the two fell into a familiar pattern.

Hamilton has tended to have an edge on his team-mate in the faster corners at the famous autodromo and, lo and behold, he made up his time in the second and third sectors of the lap, particularly the third, which features the fast Ascari chicane and Parabolica.

But the margins are always tight at Monza, and a small mistake can make the difference between pole and not, and Hamilton said he expected “a good battle” with Rosberg.

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World champion Lewis Hamilton was sitting top of the pile yesterday, beating team-mate Nico Rosberg by 0.193secs in second practice.

It's all set up to be an absolute nip-and-tuck-a-thon between the two of them, not just this weekend but in the other remaining seven races.

Hamilton is nine points clear of Rosberg in the drivers' championship.

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

And whence and where may you enjoy today's action?

10:00 BST - final practice with coverage on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra and online from 09:55 BST

13:00 BST - qualifying with coverage on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra and online from 12:55 BST

Image source, Rex Features

Bit blurry from the Bellinis?

Puzzled by the Prosecco?

Lacklustre after one too many limoncellos?

Can't say I blame you. It's Monza after all.

My advice? Get a stiff espresso down you, snaffle a pastry, and sit back and enjoy a day of practice and qualifying at one of the most revered cathedrals of speed in the known universe.