Max velocity

MAX VERSTAPPEN produced the fastest lap in Formula One history to snatch pole position for the Italian Grand Prix.

- By Dan Moxon

It was an unexpected outcome with everyone at Monza anticipating a Ferrari assault on the McLarens.

But none of them could stop the Dutchman, who secured his 45th career pole in a Red Bull that beforehand didn’t look quick enough to truly challenge.

And he did so in style, breaking Lewis Hamilton’s Monza lap record with a lap at an average speed of 164.484mph.

Lando Norris will join him on the front row today and insisted it was no shock to see the Dutchman at the front of the pack.

He said: “Max has been quick all weekend and it is never a surprise with Max.”

Norris endured a messy session but produced his best lap when it mattered to get the better of McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri.