Luke Browning takes maiden F2 pole in tense Monza qualifying
The Williams junior took his maiden FIA Formula 2 pole position after an interrupted qualifying session in Monza.
MONZA, Italy – Luke Browning took his maiden FIA Formula 2 pole position in a tense session at the Italian Grand Prix.
With drivers aiming for a slipstream and improving track conditions there was no rush to get out of the pit lane, but the session was soon suspended as Gabriele Minì and Cian Shields both stopped on track.
Leonardo Fornaroli looked to be on the way to a competitive lap when running resumed, but he too came to a halt on the circuit, bringing out the red flag once again.
Richard Verschoor was the next to go, leading the pack into the next set of flying laps before spinning at the first Lesmo corner and hitting the barriers.
The session was not resumed, and Browning's lap of 1:32.390 set in the one extended period of clear running was enough to earn his maiden Formula 2 pole position.
"I think many people could have improved, but to be honest, so could I," said the softly-spoken Browning.
"I am glad it finished when it did because I am pole but equally it would have been nice for it to run it’s full course."
LUKE BROWNING TAKES HIS FIRST @aramco POLE POSITION AWARD 🏆👏#F2 #ItalianGP pic.twitter.com/m4giFMsS5X
— Formula 2 (@Formula2) September 5, 2025
Browning will start Sunday's feature race on pole, with Verschoor and Maini penciled in to line up behind him, pending any penalties for the Dutchman's session-ending spin.
Sami Megietounif is in position to lead the sprint race from pole but that could change with penalties almost sure to come after the incident-filled qualifying.
The FIA Formula 2 field returns at 10.15pm Saturday (AEST).
