Max Verstappen returned to the Formula 1 podium with third place in the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, finishing as the strongest non-Mercedes driver behind race winner Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. The Red Bull driver challenged the Silver Arrows at different stages of the race but admitted their outright pace was simply too strong.
For Max Verstappen, the result carried extra significance after his retirement at his home Dutch Grand Prix. Monza therefore offered an immediate opportunity to recover, and despite the difficult conditions faced by teams not powered by Mercedes, the four-time world champion managed to secure a valuable podium.
Max Verstappen finishes best of the rest behind Mercedes at Monza
Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell ultimately proved too quick for the rest of the field as Mercedes completed a dominant one-two finish. Max Verstappen attempted to challenge both cars at various points, but he was unable to match their sustained pace.
Even so, the Red Bull driver remained firmly in the fight for third place. After his pit stop helped consolidate his position, Max Verstappen also had to defend against the McLarens as the race developed.
“It was a good battle, but the speed wasn’t kind to many people today, except for these guys here,” Max Verstappen said with a smile, referring to Mercedes. “I fought with them a little, but they were definitely too fast.”
Overtake mode helps Verstappen defend Monza podium
Max Verstappen explained that strategy played an important role in preserving the podium, particularly once the McLaren drivers entered the fight behind him.
“The pit stop helped us keep the podium, although later I also ended up fighting with the McLarens, but fortunately I was in overtake mode and so I managed to hold onto the podium.”
That defensive phase ensured Max Verstappen finished third and secured another strong result despite the RB22 difficulties that have limited Red Bull at several races this season.
Verstappen happy to return to Monza podium
The result also provided a positive response to the disappointment of Zandvoort, where Max Verstappen retired from his home Grand Prix. Returning immediately to the top three at one of Formula 1’s most historic circuits was therefore particularly satisfying.
“Honestly, I’m very happy with this result, it’s nice to be back on the podium here at Monza,” Max Verstappen concluded.
Mercedes may have been out of reach on outright pace, but Max Verstappen still maximised the opportunity available to Red Bull. Third place at Monza leaves him with a welcome podium after a difficult previous weekend and reinforces his position in the 2026 Formula 1 championship standings.
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