Max Verstappen shatters Schumacher's 20-year-old F1 speed record with Italian Grand Prix win
Max Verstappen set a new record for the fastest race in Formula 1 history at the Italian Grand Prix, completing 53 laps in 1 hour, 13 minutes and 24.32 seconds.
Max Verstappen on Saturday broke Michael Schumacher's long-standing record for the fastest race in Formula 1 history by surging to victory at the Italian Grand Prix, starting from pole position.
At Monza, the Red Bull driver beat Schumacher's 2003 record of 1 hour, 14 minutes, and 19.838 seconds by completing the 53 laps in 1 hour, 13 minutes, and 24.32 seconds. That race, which took place at Monza as well, had been the sport's speed record for over 20 years.
Verstappen speaks about his Italian Grand Prix win
After his stunning victory, Verstappen stated: “Lap 1 was a bit unlucky but after that we were flying. The car was really enjoyable, I could manage the pace and we pitted at the right time. Just fantastic execution by everyone. Step by step, race by race — but this was for us an unbelievable weekend.”
Verstappen's supremacy at the front was always clear, but McLaren delivered the final drama. After a costly 5.9-second pit break, Lando Norris fell behind teammate and title challenger Oscar Piastri, who had been in second place. After receiving instructions to relinquish the position, Norris was able to regain second place and reduce Piastri's championship advantage to 31 points.
Calling it “unbelievable weekend”, Verstappen wrote on X, “Really proud of the massive effort from everyone@redbullracing💪 Grazie mille!”
Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz vs Jannik Sinner showdown at US Open: Who is richer in 2025?
Here's what Norris said
Following the defeat, Norris acknowledged that he had few grievances, saying that he knew it would be a good battle with Max. “One of those weekends where we are a bit slower but a good fight and I enjoyed it. No idea [with the pit stop] but I guess every now and then we make mistakes as a team, and today was one of them. I did everything I could today, I couldn’t do a lot more. I tried to fight with Max but he came out on top and deserved it.”
A look at Verstappen's record
Verstappen completed an unforgettable Italian double after setting the fastest lap in Formula 1 history after qualifying on Saturday. It was his first win since Imola in May and only his third of the season.
The outcome solidifies Verstappen's standing at Monza and adds an additional chapter to Formula 1's record books. Verstappen is currently a four-time world champion.
