Verstappen takes eight consecutive poles, tying Aryton Senna for the most consecutive poles in Formula One history.
IMOLA, Italy—It might seem that Max Verstappen had difficulties in Friday practice for Sunday’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Still, the Dutchman turned the tables on his usual performance in Saturday qualifying by taking the pole with a 1:14:746 fastest time, ahead of the two McLarens of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who finished second and third.
Max Verstappen: It’s been a challenging weekend so far. Even this morning, I am so incredibly happy to be on the podium. I didn’t expect that. We made some changes before qualifying. This seemed to feel a bit better, and this track is unbelievable.
Verstappen took all three qualifying sessions and set his best time with only a few minutes left in the final session. Many other drivers who followed Verstappen could not get close to the Red driver’s best time. With this circuit very difficult to pass, being up front on the starting grid is necessary. For Verstappen himself, who took his eighth consecutive pole, which tied the record set by Ayrton Senna, it could give him something he is usually used to.
It was a disappointment for the two Ferraris driving on their home soil, especially following a great Friday practice session, as both Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz finished fourth and fifth.
Meanwhile, George Russell’s and Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes took sixth and eighth. RB drivers Yuki Tsunoda, in seventh, and Daniel Ricciardo, in ninth, also placed two cars in the top ten. Nico Hulkenberg, in his Haas, placed once again in tenth.
Several big surprises occurred in the opening two sessions. Fernando Alonso and two Saubers, Zhou Guanyu and Valtteri Bottas, were out in the first session. Williams Logan Sargeant and the Haas of Kevin Magnussen also exited the opening session. Sergio Perez, in his Red Bull, was also out. That happened in the second session for Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll, Williams’ Alex Albon, and the two Alpines of Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly.
Despite claiming the pole, Verstappen felt the circuit was challenging to manage.“To be so fast, so close to the gravel, Verstappen added.” I touched the gravel a little on my final lap. I’m still pumping. The adrenaline is incredible.”
Many networks will broadcast the race, including ESPN 2 at 9:00 am Eastern time in the U.S. Check your listings.
