Max Verstappen’s Monza story: From fastest lap in F1 history to P5 start at 2026

In an explosive display of speed, Max Verstappen shattered two Formula 1 records at Monza in 2025. With an average of 264.682 km/h, he clocked the fastest qualifying lap in history, while the 2025 Italian Grand Prix itself marked a record for the quickest race ever. Despite this success, Verstappen’s performance saw him qualifying fifth for the upcoming 2026 Italian Grand Prix.