Verstappen explains why pole was not an option: "Chose more downforce".

Max Verstappen finished second in qualifying for the Italian Grand Prix. Rival Charles Leclerc was slightly too fast for the Dutchman, but Verstappen knows he will probably have a stronger car on Sunday.

"It was close, but of course, we chose to go for a little bit more downforce around here. I think over one lap it is maybe not the best, but I think for tomorrow it can be quite strong," the Dutchman said after qualifying.

Verstappen will incur a five-place grid penalty this weekend and will therefore lose a number of places at the start on Sunday. The downforce setting will also help him in this regard. "All in all it was still a good lap, I enjoyed the whole weekend so far. It will be an interesting battle tomorrow. Try to stay out of trouble in the beginning, and just make my way forward," said the Red Bull Racing driver.

Two Dutch in top ten

It is not yet known whether Verstappen will start from P4 or P7 on Sunday, but fortunately overtaking is easy on the Monza circuit with its long straights. Dutchman Nyck de Vries, who replaces Alexander Albon at Williams this weekend, will also start from the top ten on Sunday.