Image Source: Formula 1
The Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix at Monza is gearing up to be a thrilling event, with Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing taking pole position in an exhilarating qualifying session. The Dutch driver clocked an impressive time of 1:18.792, just 0.077 seconds ahead of Lando Norris from McLaren. Norris secured his place on the front row, closely followed by his teammate and current championship leader, Oscar Piastri, who qualified third.
As the action unfolded in qualifying on September 6, Verstappen showcased his racing prowess, asserting his dominance on the track. The atmosphere was electric with fans cheering for their favorite drivers, especially those from the home team Ferrari. Charles Leclerc managed to qualify in fourth place, showing hope for podium success in his home race, while his teammate, Lewis Hamilton, faced a setback that forced him to the tenth position on the grid due to a yellow-flag penalty from the previous outing.
Qualifying Highlights from Monza
Ferrari’s Leclerc, starting fourth, is in a strong position to challenge for a podium finish. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s drop to tenth allows George Russell to slide into fifth place, with the local hero Kimi Antonelli from Mercedes right behind him in sixth.
One of the most exciting aspects of this qualifying round was the impressive performance of Gabriel Bortoleto, a rookie driver for Kick Sauber, who qualified in seventh place, ahead of legendary driver Fernando Alonso in eighth. Bortoleto’s achievement has generated buzz and excitement among fans as he aims for a strong performance during the race.
However, it has been a challenging weekend for Racing Bulls, another Italian team. Liam Lawson qualified last, while his teammate and previous podium star, Isack Hadjar, qualified sixteenth. Due to engine issues, Hadjar will start from the pit lane after opting for a new power unit. Similarly, Pierre Gasly from Alpine, qualified nineteenth, will also begin the race from the pit lane after switching to a new power unit, adding to the drama surrounding the weekend.
Complete Starting Grid for the 2025 Italian Grand Prix
- 1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) – 1:18.792
- 2. Lando Norris (McLaren) – 1:18.869
- 3. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 1:18.982
- 4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 1:19.007
- 5. George Russell (Mercedes) – 1:19.157
- 6. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 1:19.200
- 7. Gabriel Bortoleto (Kick Sauber) – 1:19.390
- 8. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) – 1:19.424
- 9. Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull Racing) – 1:19.519
- 10. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – 1:19.124
The anticipation builds as the race is scheduled to start at 15:00 local time. Fans are encouraged to engage with the live coverage, ensuring they do not miss any of the action unfold at the iconic Monza track, known as the “Temple of Speed.”
FAQ
When does the Italian Grand Prix start?
The Italian Grand Prix is set to start at 15:00 local time.
Who secured pole position for the Italian Grand Prix?
Max Verstappen secured pole position with a time of 1:18.792.
Which drivers will start from the pit lane?
Pierre Gasly and Isack Hadjar will start from the pit lane due to power unit changes.
Where did Lewis Hamilton qualify?
Lewis Hamilton qualified in tenth place but will start from the pit lane due to a penalty.
What are the expectations for Ferrari in this race?
Ferrari hopes to achieve podium success with Charles Leclerc starting in fourth place, in their home race.
