Max Verstappen wins the eighth consecutive pole position in the qualifying sessions of the Emilia Romagna F1 GP, equaling the record of Ayrton Senna 30 years after the death of the Brazilian champion.
Verstappen as Senna
Another pole position for Max Verstappen, who now seems to want to break all records. The Dutchman from Red Bull has in fact achieved his eighth consecutive start from the pole (also taking into account the 2023 Abu Dhabi GP), thus equaling Ayrton Senna’s record on the Imola circuit, where 30 years ago the Brazilian champion. A pole position that was not at all obvious considering how Friday went for the Red Bull driver, who seemed to be in more difficulty than usual and behind Ferrari and McLaren in terms of pace. Verstappen, on the other hand, as usual, put his best foot forward, taking the lead despite the unfavorable predictions thanks to an amazing 1:14.746.
Also thanks to the team who made some changes to the set-up just before qualifying, effectively reversing the situation. Max was therefore able to show off a perfect lap despite what seemed to be a complicated weekend, managing to take that pole position which rightfully places him among the greatest in the history of F1. Verstappen therefore continues to impress, managing not only to equal Senna’s record but also to do so in Imola on the thirtieth anniversary of the Brazilian’s death, making the record of the Dutchman even more impressive, who now seems to have all it takes to enter in the Olympus of the greatest ever.
Verstappen’s statements
At the end of qualifying for the Emilia Romagna GP Max Verstappen declared:
“It was a really complicated weekend and I’m really happy to have achieved the pole position which I honestly didn’t expect. Before qualifying we made some changes that made me feel more comfortable allowing me to push harder. This track by the way is truly incredible. Pushing to the limit here makes your heart beat fast and the adrenaline rises a lot.”
Verstappen he then talks about the record equaled by Ayrton Senna:
“This year has started off great, but it’s really special to equal Ayrton’s record on this very track 30 years after his passing. I’m really happy to have taken pole here and I think it’s a nice way to remember it. Senna was an incredible driver, especially in qualifying. This is a great day for me and for the team, I’m really happy.”
Julian D’Agata
