Max Verstappen delivered a stunning performance to secure pole position for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, setting the fastest lap in Formula 1 history. The Red Bull driver clocked 1:18.792, averaging more than 164mph, to edge out McLaren rivals Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
The result marked a dramatic turnaround for Verstappen, who last year described his car as an “undriveable monster” at the same track. With Red Bull struggling for form in recent months, the pole brought renewed optimism as the team adjusts to new leadership under Laurent Mekies following Christian Horner’s departure.
Ferrari also impressed at their home race. Lewis Hamilton, making his Monza debut for the Scuderia, thrilled the Tifosi and finished fifth in qualifying, just behind Charles Leclerc, though a grid penalty will drop him to 10th.
For Norris, the qualifying duel was crucial in his title fight with teammate Piastri, who he leads on the grid despite trailing by 34 points in the standings. The Briton narrowly avoided disaster in Q2, recovering from an aborted lap to progress before sealing second place.
With Verstappen back at the front and McLaren still the team to beat, Sunday’s race promises a fierce battle at one of F1’s most iconic circuits.
