Max Verstappen reclaims top spot in record-breaking weekend at Monza

Qualifying set the tone. Lando Norris briefly looked set for pole with his own record-breaking run, only for Verstappen to deliver a late masterstroke. His lap of 1:18.792 translated to an average speed of 264.68 km/h (164.47 mph), edging Lewis Hamilton’s 2020 benchmark at the same circuit.

The lap stunned the McLaren garage, where Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri had looked strong throughout. For Verstappen, it was a statement response after a summer in which Red Bull had struggled to keep pace with McLaren’s resurgence.

On Sunday, the reigning champion carried that momentum into the race. A first-corner skirmish briefly disrupted the order, but Verstappen quickly reasserted control. 

From there, his rhythm was unshakable. Norris and Piastri gave chase, but neither could mount a sustained challenge. Victory was built not just on outright speed, but on flawless execution.

It was a reminder of the qualities that once made him untouchable en route to four straight world championships (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024).

"It was a great day for us," Verstappen told the media post-race, via Sky Sports. "Lap 1 was a bit unlucky but after that we were flying. The car was really enjoyable.

"Fantastic execution by everyone by the whole team. The whole weekend, we were on it. This was an unbelievable weekend."

Norris secured second, while Piastri completed the podium after briefly jumping his teammate during a slow pit stop, before being instructed by McLaren to hand the place back in what was a decision certain to spark debate in the days ahead.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc thrilled the tifosi with a spirited drive to fourth, while Hamilton recovered to sixth after a scrappy opening.

The result reopens the narrative of the 2025 season. Verstappen’s victory checked McLaren’s momentum at a circuit where speed and precision are paramount. For Norris, second place narrowed his deficit to Piastri slightly after a difficult previous round, where he was forced to retire.

Monza, the temple of speed, has delivered many historic moments. This year’s edition may prove one of the most significant. Verstappen not only reclaimed the top step of the podium but etched his name into history with the fastest lap Formula 1 has ever seen.