Verstappen breaks F1 record in Monza as McLaren challenge Ferrari in Italian GP qualifying

September 6, 2025, F1 (Photo: Max33Verstappen)

The 2025 Italian Grand Prix qualifying session in Monza confirmed two undeniable truths: when Max Verstappen is in the zone, he is unstoppable; and McLaren, with Norris and Piastri, is the team to beat. The Dutchman closed Q3 with a stunning 1:18.792, the fastest lap in Formula 1 history, reaching an average speed of 264.681 km/h. This lap not only earned him the 45th pole position of his career but also set a new record at the iconic "Temple of Speed."

McLaren secured the spots right behind: Lando Norris was just 0.077 seconds off, while Oscar Piastri clinched a solid third. A clear sign that the British team has stepped up to the “front-runner level” this weekend. Ferrari, the local favorite, struggled to match the pace: Charles Leclerc will start fourth, while Lewis Hamilton qualified fifth but will drop to 10th after a five-place penalty carried over from Zandvoort.

Beyond Red Bull’s surprise, the standout story was McLaren’s consistency and aggressiveness: two cars in the front row and championship leader Piastri holding on to that provisional podium. Something unusual also happened in Monza: Isack Hadjar failed to reach Q3 for the first time in his career after 15 consecutive appearances.

Monza, with its long straights and high-speed corners, rewards those who maximize top speed and car power. Verstappen executed it to perfection, while McLaren proved ready to follow closely. Ferrari, meanwhile, will need to counter this strategy if they want to capitalize on the passionate home crowd.