Formula 1 is heading to the narrow streets of the principality for the year's most prestigious race, the Monaco Grand Prix, from June 5-7. Data from Canada and the general consensus in the paddock agree on one thing: Ferrari is the strongest contender for this weekend.
The principality's streets are waiting for Ferrari.
While the SF-26 may not be the most competitive powertrain package of the season, it stands out as one of the most balanced cars this year in terms of low-speed corners and mechanical load. Monaco's structure, consisting of constantly slow corners, tight sections, and very few straights, provides precisely the advantage for Ferrari.
Even the competitors agree.
McLaren boss Andrea Stella openly admitted that after Canada they analyzed Ferrari's GPS data and that their superior cornering speed could be decisive in Monaco. While Ralf Schumacher argued that McLaren shouldn't be ruled out, the overwhelming majority in the paddock favored Ferrari.
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli was unusually frank with his rivals ahead of Monaco, stating that Ferrari is a truly strong contender for the track and that stopping the SF-26 won't be easy. Antonelli will be aiming for his fifth consecutive victory, but he is aware that what he calls "one of the toughest weekends" lies ahead.
A historic opportunity for Hamilton.
This race holds special significance for Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion has yet to win Monaco with Ferrari; in fact, his historical debt to the track is debatable. His ability to reach the top in Monaco after his strong performance in Canada will not only be a personal achievement but also proof that Ferrari can compensate for its power unit shortcomings on certain tracks.
Rescue operation for Leclerc
Having endured the most challenging weekend of his career in Canada, Charles Leclerc views Monaco as both a much-needed and home-based race. While the Monegasc driver has always had a special connection with the principality's streets, he doesn't seem to have fully mastered the SF-26 this season. Monaco will be both a prestigious opportunity and a stressful test for Leclerc.