Revealed: The Enigma Surrounding Verstappen's Winning Circuit

In a spectacular display of driving prowess, Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing set new records during the qualifying session for the 2025 Monza Grand Prix.

The new asphalt at Monza appears to have contributed to Verstappen's record-breaking lap time. He set the fastest lap in Formula 1 history, clocking a time of 1:19.792 minutes, achieving an average speed of 264.691 km/h. This remarkable lap time surpassed the previous record held by Michael Schumacher from 2003.

Moreover, Verstappen became the first driver to complete a full race at Monza with an average speed exceeding 250 km/h. He finished the 306.72 km race in 1 hour, 13 minutes, and 24.325 seconds, averaging 250.706 km/h for the duration of the race.

Red Bull's success at Monza can be attributed to several factors. The team has changed its working methods, with preparation in the simulator now closer to reality. This enhanced simulation has allowed Red Bull to start the first practice better prepared.

The technical team around Pierre Waché made adjustments to the Red Bull car at Monza, improving its stability, reducing understeer, and making it more predictable. These changes seemed to have paid off, as Verstappen qualified for the pole position at the 2025 Monza Grand Prix.

In the qualifying session, Red Bull was the benchmark in all corners. While George Russell improved by only 0.283 seconds this year compared to his Q3 time from the previous year, Verstappen was 1.428 seconds faster. Charles Leclerc's improvement was smaller, with a difference of 0.454 seconds compared to his Q3 time from the previous year.

The McLarens, on the other hand, struggled during the qualifying session. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could only improve by 0.458 and 0.454 seconds respectively compared to their Q3 times from the previous year. This left the McLarens at the back in all measuring points during the qualifying session.

Red Bull's motorsport consultant, Helmut Marko, expressed confidence in the team's performance from the start of the 2025 Monza Grand Prix weekend. The team also sacrificed some downforce on car number 1 for more top speed in the setup for the 2025 Monza Grand Prix.

More engine power will be used on the first practice day from now on by Red Bull. The RB21 has been equipped with new parts at every race since the Austrian GP, particularly in the front wing and underbody areas.

Andrea Stella, McLaren team principal, warns that Verstappen was within range during the long runs on Friday in the 2025 Monza Grand Prix. However, Red Bull's improved performance and Verstappen's record-breaking lap times suggest that they will be tough to beat this weekend.

The fastest lap in Formula 1 history now belongs to Max Verstappen, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 Monza Grand Prix.