Max Verstappen tops FP3 ahead of qualifying at Monza

Max Verstappen was the standard in FP3 for the Italian Grand Prix, as the Red Bull man topped the timesheets heading into qualifying later today.

Verstappen leads the way

The Dutchman set a time of 1:21.872 and it was fast enough for top spot, as he topped a session for the first time this weekend. The Red Bull driver will be searching for yet another victory and extend his dominance in the title race, which already seems a done deal. However, the Dutchman will take a grid penalty so that could hinder his aspirations of a victory, but his superior speed could prove crucial around the Temple of Speed.

His nearest rival Charles Leclerc was second in FP3, setting a time of 1:21.599, so significantly down on his rival, although you can never read too much into the practice sessions. 

The Monegasque split the Red Bull's, with Sergio Perez down in third. The Mexican has struggled in recent weeks but his time of 1:21.848 puts him among the front runners and he'll be hoping to build on it in qualifying, and potentially provide an upset. 

The rest of the field

Carlos Sainz was fourth with a time of 1:21.897 and fellow Spaniard one place back in fifth. Mercedes finished seventh and tenth respectively with George Russell setting a 1:22.357 and Hamilton a 1:22.567. Lando Norris (P6), Yuki Tsunoda (P8), and Esteban Ocon (P10) completed the top ten.

Nyck de Vries to make his debut

Just before the start of the session it was confirmed Nyck de Vries would make his F1 debut, replacing Alex Albon, who is being treated in hospital for appendicitis. The Williams of de Vries set the 14th fastest time, just behind his teammate Latifi in P13.