Monza: The countdown to the 2025 Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix at Monza is nearly over, with grid positions locked in and anticipation reaching fever pitch among fans and teams alike. As the “Temple of Speed” plays host to the season’s 16th round, high drama is expected on a circuit where history and horsepower unite.

Verstappen at pole after thrilling qualifying

Max Verstappen has claimed pole position in Saturday’s qualifying session, posting an impressive 1:18.792 around Monza’s legendary 5.793 km track. Lando Norris lines up second for McLaren, while teammate Oscar Piastri completes the top three. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, hoping to electrify the home crowd in Maranello colours, starts fourth. Mercedes veteran Lewis Hamilton rounds off the top five, setting the stage for a tantalising battle between F1’s fastest.

Starting Grid (Top 5):

  1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
  2. Lando Norris (McLaren)
  3. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
  4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
  5. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

Monza: The Temple of Speed

Monza is legendary in F1 circles, with its ultra-fast, low-downforce layout demanding not only pure pace but flawless execution. The race covers 53 laps, totalling 306.72 km, with drivers pushing full throttle for about 80% of the lap. Known for passionate “Tifosi” and dramatic races, Monza remains a crown jewel in the F1 calendar.

  • Circuit Length: 5.793 km
  • Number of Laps: 53
  • Fastest Lap: 1:21.046 (Rubens Barrichello, 2004)
  • First F1 race at Monza: 1950

Where and how to watch

Indian fans can enjoy live coverage of the Italian Grand Prix on the FanCode app and F1 TV Pro, both offering high-quality streaming of all sessions. The main race begins at 6:30 PM IST on Sunday, September 7. Pre-race coverage, including the national anthem, drivers’ parade, and key build-up, starts earlier in the evening