Pierre Gasly secured his first career pole position at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix, edging out George Russell by 0.060 seconds after a dramatic qualifying session. Gasly’s triumph came amid controversy, following Alpine boss Flavio Briatore’s accusation that an FIA judge had a 'working relationship' with McLaren after the team’s appeal stripped Gasly of his Monaco podium. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton started third and fourth for Ferrari, while Oscar Piastri was demoted to sixth due to a three-place grid penalty for impeding Liam Lawson.

Championship leader Kimi Antonelli qualified seventh but will start from the back due to an engine penalty. The race began with Gasly leading, but on lap 4, Leclerc suffered a massive crash into the tyre barrier at Parabolica, bringing out the red flag. Leclerc exited the car and appeared winded, prompting immediate safety crews rushed to the scene.

Russell took the lead after passing Gasly on the main straight, while Verstappen moved up to third. Hamilton lost ground early, clipping gravel at the first chicane and falling to tenth. The incident marked a nightmare start for Ferrari, with both Leclerc and Hamilton out of contention.

Live coverage continues as officials assess the barrier damage and Leclerc’s condition.