Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen of Oracle Red Bull Racing set the fastest lap record in Formula 1 history by average speed. He claimed pole position at the 2025 Italian Grand Prix qualifying in Monza with a time of 1m18.792s. Additionally, Verstappen jokingly remarked he could have been faster in the previous Mercedes car. This article reviews his achievement and the qualifying dynamics on September 6, 2025.
Verstappen’s Historic Lap
Verstappen posted the fastest lap at Monza, outpacing Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri of McLaren F1 Team. His 1m18.792s secured his fifth pole of the season. As a result, he broke the record previously held by Lewis Hamilton. In a playful quip, Verstappen said, “I’d have been faster in that Mercedes.” Meanwhile, the Red Bull Pit Crew and engineer Adrian Newey ensured top performance.
Intense Qualifying Battle
McLaren showed strong pace but fell short of Verstappen. Norris trailed by just 0.077 seconds, with Piastri in third. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc of Scuderia Ferrari took fourth. Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, led by Toto Wolff, placed drivers in the midfield. For instance, George Russell finished sixth. Gabriel Bortoleto of Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber impressed in eighth.

Rosberg’s High Praise
Former world champion Nico Rosberg hailed Verstappen as one of the top five F1 drivers ever. “His Monza performance was magic,” Rosberg said. Thus, this feat solidified Verstappen’s legacy. However, McLaren admitted struggles on Monza’s straights. For example, their aerodynamic setup was less effective than Red Bull’s. Consequently, Verstappen maximized his car’s speed advantage.
Race Outlook at Monza
The main race on September 7, 2025, promises fierce competition. Verstappen, starting from pole, is favored to win. However, McLaren and Ferrari will challenge with tire and pit stop strategies. Additionally, teams like BWT Alpine F1 Team and MoneyGram Haas F1 Team could surprise. Therefore, Sportrik predicts the race will hinge on tire management and tifosi support for Ferrari at the “Temple of Speed.”



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