In an electrifying qualifying session at Monza, Max Verstappen delivered a masterclass performance to clinch pole position for the 2025 Italian Grand Prix. The Red Bull star edged out McLaren’s dynamic duo, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, in one of the closest battles of the season, underscoring his intent to challenge McLaren’s dominance at the Temple of Speed.
The Italian GP qualifying unfolded as a thrilling showdown as Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri exchanged fastest laps through the intense Q3 shootout. Verstappen initially set the benchmark early in the session, only for Norris to briefly take over before the Dutchman unleashed a blistering final lap of 1:18.792. This timed lap was enough to secure pole by a razor-thin margin of 0.077 seconds ahead of Norris, with Piastri just 0.190 seconds behind in third place.
This result highlights a significant improvement for Verstappen and Red Bull following last year’s challenging weekend in Italy. The team’s upgraded pace and strategic execution have turned Monza into a battleground where Verstappen can realistically contest McLaren’s pace, making Sunday’s race highly anticipated.
Behind the top three, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, now penalized and set to start further back, rounded out the top five. Mercedes opted for an alternate qualifying strategy by starting on medium tyres before switching to softs, positioning George Russell and home star Kimi Antonelli in sixth and seventh respectively.
Other notable performances included Gabriel Bortoleto’s strong drive to eighth place for Kick Sauber, reflecting the team’s progress under new management. Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso and Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda completed the top ten, while Haas’ Ollie Bearman narrowly missed Q3 by a hundredth of a second.
Williams, after showing promise in Friday practice, faded during qualifying with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon settling for mid-pack starting positions. Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar suffered an unfortunate Q1 exit despite his impressive podium finish in the previous Dutch GP, marking a tough weekend start.
As the grand prix looms, Verstappen’s pole sets the stage for a captivating race at Monza, where raw speed and strategic prowess will be crucial. Fans can expect a fierce contest among the front runners with Verstappen, McLaren’s Norris and Piastri all keen to make their mark at this iconic circuit.
With the 2025 F1 season continuing its dramatic momentum, this Italian GP qualifying session has further intensified the championship battle and showcased the exceptional talent across the grid heading into the weekend’s race.
