Max Verstappen delivered one of the most remarkable displays in Formula 1 history by winning the Italian GP with a record-breaking time at the Monza circuit. This Max Verstappen Italian GP win not only underscored his exceptional driving skill but also drew widespread acclaim, including praise from 2016 F1 champion Nico Rosberg, who celebrated the Dutchman’s masterful performance at the Temple of Speed.
Verstappen’s Quiet Start and Explosive Qualifying Pace
During the initial practice sessions at the Italian GP weekend, Max Verstappen remained under the radar, trailing behind the apparent front-runners Ferrari and McLaren. The media attention was largely focused on these teams, as the local favorites and their competitors appeared poised for victory. However, everything shifted dramatically during qualifying as Verstappen shattered the lap time record at Monza, setting the fastest lap ever recorded in Formula 1 history and securing pole position in a commanding fashion.
Race Day Drama: Recovery and Dominance After Turn 1 Contact
The race presented an early challenge for Verstappen after an incident at Turn 1 involving Lando Norris briefly cost him the lead. Yet, Verstappen regained control swiftly and remained unchallenged at the front for the rest of the race. His driving attracted high praise from key figures in the paddock, with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff remarking that Verstappen’s performance made his rivals appear ineffective by comparison, demonstrating a flawless and dominant display on one of Formula 1’s most iconic tracks.
Rosberg Reflects on Verstappen’s Unexpected Brilliance
Nico Rosberg noted the remarkable nature of Verstappen’s victory by pointing out how the Dutchman’s name was barely mentioned throughout the race weekend amid the focus on Ferrari and McLaren. Suddenly, Verstappen’s commanding pace and control surprised everyone, highlighting his ability to perform spectacularly under pressure.
We never even spoke of Verstappen through the whole weekend. We’re speaking about McLaren, Ferrari. No one mentioned Verstappen, and suddenly, bam! When it mattered, it was Verstappen magic.
—Nico Rosberg, 2016 Formula 1 World Champion
Assessing the Speed of Verstappen’s Car at Monza
Red Bull Racing had struggled earlier in the season, but their performance at Monza showed significant improvement, with Verstappen’s car matching or even surpassing the pace of the McLaren vehicles. While Verstappen himself remained modest about his dominant weekend and cautioned fans against excessive optimism, Rosberg emphasized that the RB21 car was genuinely fast and played a crucial role in Verstappen’s success.
And in qualifying, I do think really it was down to him, but then in the race, somehow, yes, again, he, I mean, he’s just unbelievable, but his car was also fast, which really came as a surprise to us. It came as a surprise to McLaren. So hats off to Red Bull, and, of course, to him for just such a special weekend.
—Nico Rosberg, 2016 Formula 1 World Champion
Implications for the 2025 Season Still to Be Seen
With only eight races remaining in the 2025 season, Verstappen’s victory at Monza serves as a critical milestone, though he still trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by 94 points. Whether this performance signals a turnaround for Red Bull’s form or remains an isolated success remains to be seen. The team and driver will need to maintain this momentum to challenge for the title as the season progresses.
Verstappen’s Victory Resonates Across the F1 Community
Max Verstappen’s commanding Italian GP win has reverberated throughout the Formula 1 community. Rosberg’s recognition of the “magic” displayed at Monza reflects a broader consensus that Verstappen remains a formidable force on the track. His ability to deliver under pressure, combined with Red Bull’s newfound pace, has intensified the championship battle and set the stage for an exciting finish to the season.
