Max Verstappen adopts realistic expectations for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix

Formula1.com1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 6:14 PM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Max Verstappen adopts realistic expectations for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix
Summary

Max Verstappen enters the Italian Grand Prix at Monza looking to reset after an early exit at the Zandvoort race. The Red Bull Racing driver intends to aim for a productive weekend rather than predicting a specific finish, noting that recent performance requires a grounded outlook. Verstappen will sit out the first practice session at Monza as Ayumu Iwasa takes the wheel of his car. The four-time World Champion previously captured victory at this track last season but expects a complex challenge during the upcoming session. Reflecting on his home event in the Netherlands, Verstappen stated that his team was off the pace throughout the weekend regardless of his first-lap crash. He plans to use practice sessions to move the car into a more competitive operating window while evaluating team performance in the current pecking order.

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Key Details
  • Max Verstappen sits out Free Practice 1 for Ayumu Iwasa at Monza.
  • Red Bull Racing targets a steady weekend to assess team performance.
  • Verstappen crashed out of the Zandvoort race on the first lap.
  • The driver acknowledged recent struggles with vehicle pace and preparation.
  • Monza serves as the immediate follow-up to the Dutch Grand Prix.
What they're saying
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After an early exit from his home race last time out in Zandvoort, Red Bull's Max Verstappen has given his take on what might be possible this weekend at the Italian Grand Prix.

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