Italian GP Qualifying: Max Verstappen Grabs Pole in Monza Thriller

Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, edging out the McLaren duo in a dramatic conclusion to Saturday's qualifying session. The reigning Formula 1 World Champion put in a blistering final lap to deny Lando Norris a sensational pole in front of the Tifosi.

Qualifying unfolded largely as expected through Q1 and Q2, with all major contenders safely progressing. But it was Q3 that delivered the fireworks.

Lando Norris briefly topped the timesheets with an impressive lap that edged him ahead of Verstappen — but the Dutchman responded immediately, snatching pole back with a flawless sector three to seal P1 for Red Bull Racing.

Starting Grid Shake-Up After Penalty

While Lewis Hamilton qualified fifth, he will serve a five-place grid penalty — a carryover from last week's Dutch Grand Prix — meaning he will start 10th. This promotes several drivers up the order, including George Russell and rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli.

🇮🇹 Italian Grand Prix – Qualifying Results (Top 10)

1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)
2. Lando Norris (McLaren)
3. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
5. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – 5-place grid penalty → starts 10th
6. George Russell (Mercedes)
7. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
8. Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber)
9. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
10. Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull Racing)