Max Verstappen delivered a record-breaking lap to seize pole position for the Italian Grand Prix, edging out Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in a dramatic qualifying session at Monza.
The Dutchman’s final run of 1:18.792 was the fastest lap in Formula 1 history, averaging over 164mph and eclipsing Lewis Hamilton’s 2020 benchmark. It marked a stunning turnaround for Red Bull, who had struggled at the same track last year.
Ferrari also impressed at their home race, with Charles Leclerc and new signing Hamilton taking fourth and fifth in qualifying, though Hamilton will start 10th after a grid penalty. The roar of the Tifosi underlined the excitement of his debut Italian GP in red.
For McLaren, the internal battle remains fierce. Norris outpaced Piastri in a vital boost to his title hopes after a tense Q2 scare nearly saw him eliminated. Despite trailing his teammate in the championship, the Briton kept his campaign alive with a front-row start.
With Verstappen back on form and McLaren pushing hard, Sunday’s race promises a high-speed showdown at the Temple of Speed.
