George Russell continued his impressive form at Monza by topping the final practice session ahead of Italian Grand Prix qualifying, with Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen completing the top three.

The Mercedes driver set the fastest lap of the session with a 1:22.219, finishing 0.226 seconds ahead of Hamilton. Verstappen was also close behind in third as the fight at the front continued to tighten ahead of qualifying.

Russell had already topped FP2 on Friday and once again looked comfortable around the high speed Monza circuit. His strong pace has made him one of the favourites for pole position as Mercedes continue to show impressive form at the Italian Grand Prix.

Hamilton gave Ferrari plenty of encouragement by finishing second. The seven time world champion looked competitive throughout the session as Ferrari prepare for qualifying in front of their passionate home crowd.

Verstappen completed the top three for Red Bull, continuing his strong start to the weekend. However, the session was not without drama for the Dutchman and Hamilton, who had a close moment on track near the Parabolica, with both drivers expressing their frustration over the incident.

Championship leader Kimi Antonelli finished fourth for Mercedes despite already knowing he will start Sunday’s race from the back of the grid because of engine penalties. Lando Norris was fifth, followed by Charles Leclerc as the front of the field remained incredibly close.

The top 12 drivers were separated by less than a second, showing just how competitive the battle for pole could be at the Temple of Speed.

Russell heads into qualifying with momentum firmly on his side after topping two of the three practice sessions. But with Hamilton, Verstappen, Antonelli, Norris and Leclerc all close behind, the battle for pole position at Monza is wide open.