The Italian Grand Prix qualifying sessions delivered unexpected results as Max Verstappen secured pole position in a dramatic final lap, overtaking the two McLarens. Despite the Red Bull driver’s dominance in the last run, Lando Norris and his team from Woking were prepared for Verstappen’s threat, knowing the Dutchman had shown solid speed throughout the weekend.
Although Verstappen had lagged behind McLaren drivers Norris and Oscar Piastri throughout much of the season, the Red Bull RB21 appeared more competitive at Monza than initially expected. Before the event, Verstappen himself had tempered expectations, stating that Red Bull was not introducing a special aerodynamic upgrade for the circuit. Still, Verstappen’s persistence paid off as he maintained the top spot from his initial run to clinch pole place.
Lando Norris acknowledged Verstappen’s impressive pace on Friday and described qualifying as a challenging session with ups and downs, ultimately securing second position. For Norris, starting just ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri and keeping close to Verstappen is a positive position heading into the race.
No, no, Max had been quick all weekend. It was quite a session from me, up and down so to pull it out on the last lap is a good feeling. P2 is not a bad position to be off the line.
— Lando Norris, post-qualifying
Lando Norris Anticipates a Fierce Challenge from Verstappen
Max Verstappen’s reputation as a tough, assertive competitor precedes him, especially given the tense encounters he has had with Norris during previous seasons. Despite possessing a generally faster car on race day, Norris understands that overtaking Verstappen will not come easily, particularly with their history of on-track battles.
The McLaren driver emphasized that while starting second provides a strategic advantage, the opening corner at Monza will be critical and likely chaotic as he attempts to overtake the current world champion. Norris’s experience and confidence in McLaren’s race pace bring hope, but he remains realistic about the challenge Verstappen presents.
A good position for tomorrow and excited for the race. Our race on Sunday is normally our strength but to get past Max will be a big challenge.
— Lando Norris
The Stakes: Norris Seeks Vital Victory to Close Championship Gap
Lando Norris arrives in Italy with added urgency after a disappointing DNF at the Dutch Grand Prix put him behind his championship rival Oscar Piastri. Securing a win this weekend is pivotal for Norris’s title hopes, yet this goal depends heavily on making a strong start and overtaking Verstappen early in the race.
Given Monza’s history of first-lap incidents, fans should anticipate a dramatic and potentially aggressive opening lap as Norris attempts to seize the lead. Successfully passing Verstappen on Turn 1 could be a decisive factor in reshaping the championship standings, underscoring the race’s significance beyond just one weekend.
