During the free practice sessions at the Italian Grand Prix, the data already suggested Max Verstappen had the tools for a strong weekend. Unlike last year at Monza, Red Bull was competitive right from the start, thanks in part to the RB21’s aerodynamic efficiency. With Verstappen comfortable and confident behind the wheel, it looked like the perfect recipe for success.
Beating McLaren to Pole
Despite the advantage, Verstappen still had to dig deep to fend off the McLarens of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. His ultimate lap delivered not only pole position but also an all-time F1 record: an average speed of 264.682 km/h, the fastest lap in Formula 1 history.
First Sector Breakthrough
Red Bull’s weekend wasn’t flawless. They struggled in the first sector during practice, but crucial adjustments paid off in qualifying. Verstappen regained ground with higher top speeds, courtesy of a trimmed rear wing, which offset McLaren’s strength in the middle sector.
The Top Speed Edge
McLaren chose to run more wing, giving Norris the quickest second sector, but Verstappen lost only 0.045s overall. His bravery through Lesmo 1 and superior straight-line speed proved decisive. The margins were razor thin, and without such precision, the four-time world champion might not even have made the top three.
Ferrari Falters at Home
For Ferrari, the session was anything but smooth. The Scuderia opted for maximum speed in front of the Tifosi, turning the SF-25 into a rocket in sector one. Yet Charles Leclerc paid the price in the high-speed corners, where he lost over a tenth to Norris.
A Strategic Battle Looms
Looking ahead to the race, Verstappen’s pole is far from a guaranteed win. McLaren’s long-standing advantage in tyre management and the ability to run two cars strategically could prove decisive. Norris and Piastri, both in the title hunt, are unafraid to make bold choices, as Hungary showed when Norris won with a one-stop strategy.
Verstappen’s Advantage at Monza
Even so, Verstappen has manoeuvred himself into a strong position. His superior top speed makes McLaren’s task of overtaking far more difficult, especially with DRS less effective at Monza’s ultra-fast layout. An average lap speed of 264.682 km/h cements his achievement as something truly extraordinary.