P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The world champion stormed to an eight consecutive pole position in F1, despite being on the back foot on Friday.
Max Verstappen achieved an “unbelievable” qualifying lap at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, securing a record-equalling pole position. Initially struggling on Friday, the RB20 driver felt the day could not worsen due to balance issues as Ferrari appeared poised to take pole at its home track. Surprisingly, McLaren emerged as Verstappen’s close competition during qualifying, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris coming within a tenth of the Dutch driver. Verstappen’s pole matched records held by Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost, describing the challenge of navigating the tight, gravel-laden Imola track. Securing his eighth straight P1 grand prix start, Verstappen’s feat also equalled Senna’s all-time record and Prost’s season-starting pole record, as the driver paid tribute to Senna’s legacy on the 30th anniversary of his passing at the track.
