The wait is over, it’s finally that time of the year. Formula 1 is ready to kick off the European races in Monaco, the home Grand Prix of one of their own, Charles Leclerc.
It’s a special week for the Monégasque, where in 2024 a dream was accomplished, winning at home.
Can Ferrari and Leclerc’s master skills in the streets of Monte Carlo conquer another victory at home? Sport Just Sport writer Daniele Capri gives his thoughts.
Great expectations
Looking at how the season started, Mercedes should be in play for the win with McLaren, as they share the same engine, which is the most important component for the 2026 regulations.
However, Monte Carlo is not a track known for the car with the best engine, but for the car with the superior chassis, as the circuit features many slow corners.
Ferrari, struggling with finding a few 10ths because of its weak engine compared to Mercedes, can finally catch a break this weekend.
The Prancing Horse’s quality of the 2026 season is the chassis, being the fastest in slow corners compared with the rest of the grid.
Monaco could be a great chance for Ferrari to score big points, trying to close the gap with Mercedes while they await the new engine to help them fight for the championship.
It’s going to be a tight fight between Ferrari, Mercedes and McLaren to secure pole and win in Monaco, with Ferrari being the favourite candidate for the highest spot on the podium.
“Ferrari is going to be the team to beat in Monaco,” F1 championship leader Kimi Antonelli said on Sky Sports.
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