Charles Leclerc takes pole at Italian Grand Prix qualifying, Max Verstappen drops to seventh for Sunday

Charles Leclerc took pole position at qualifying in Monza at the Italian Grand Prix on Saturday afternoon. Racing at Ferrari’s spiritual home, the Monegasque was quickest around the track, with current world champion Max Verstappen second quickest.

Ad Leclerc’s time of 1:20.161 put ahead of the rest of the pack, with team-mate Carlos Sainz third and Sergio Perez fourth. Italian Grand PrixVerstappen quickest at FP3, Albon to miss Italian GP due to appendicitis3 HOURS AGO Mercedes duo Lewis Hamilton were fifth and sixth fastest respectively, followed by Lando Norris, Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly and Fernando Alonso.

Despite the relatively strong performance from Red Bull, they must contend with Verstappen’s five-place penalty, and one for 10 places for Perez. Esteban Ocon (5), Valtteri Bottas (15), Kevin Magnussen (15), Mick Schumacher (15), Sainz (Back of grid), Hamilton (Back of grid) and Yuki Tsunoda (Back of grid) will also drop back.

That appears to leave Leclerc well clear of his nearest and quickest rivals, but having one from deep in the pack already this season, Verstappen may not give up yet. More to follow Italian Grand PrixSainz tops timesheets for Ferrari in FP2 at Italian GPA DAY AGO Italian Grand PrixLeclerc quickest at first practice in Monza, Verstappen takes penaltyYESTERDAY AT 13:25