After Friday practice, Max Verstappen knew Monza qualifying would be difficult. The Red Bull driver struggled with car balance, setting the sixth-fastest time, almost three tenths behind surprise polesitter Pierre Gasly. Speaking after the session, Verstappen compared his RB22 to a car made out of paper, explaining that components at the rear are 'not good enough.' He detailed how parts either break or get stuck, causing the car to bounce over kerbs and bumps, ultimately giving away significant lap time.

This issue, he stressed, is not new, stating Red Bull has been struggling with the same problem for years despite the 2026 regulation changes. Verstappen admitted he now takes fewer risks during races due to the degradation, holding back to avoid exacerbating the rear issues. Although the problem differs from earlier rear wing failures, he confirmed it is a lap time issue, not a safety concern.

Despite the frustrations, Verstappen acknowledged the team's effort, stating it is a shame when things do not work properly. He laughed at social media wordplay involving his comment and technical director Pierre Wache, but insisted he would avoid the joke himself.