Lewis Hamilton expressed optimism that Ferrari can be competitive at the Monaco Grand Prix, a circuit that plays to the strengths of their SF26 car. The Scuderia last won a race at the Mexican Grand Prix in 2024, and the twisting streets of Monte Carlo offer their best chance to end the drought.
Ferrari's Strengths Suit Monaco
The Ferrari has consistently performed well in slow-speed corners but has struggled with drag on straights and a smaller turbocharger compared to rivals. These issues have cost them on traditional circuits, where even when competitive initially, they could not match the race pace of Mercedes or the upgraded McLaren. However, Monaco's narrow, twisty layout negates these weaknesses.
Hamilton was quickest in the slow-speed corners at the last round in Canada, and the smaller turbo will be crucial in Monaco. Energy management is less of a concern due to ample recharging opportunities, and the smaller turbo allows it to stay spooled up for effective corner exits.
Turbo Advantage and Race Starts
The turbo has also contributed to Ferrari's exceptional race starts this season, often propelling them into an early lead, though they struggle to maintain it. With overtaking nearly impossible in Monaco, if Hamilton or teammate Charles Leclerc secure the front row, they could be untouchable once the lights go out.
Hamilton noted, "I would say that probably this track was better for us than some of the others. I don't think power is going to be necessarily so much of an issue. And our car is good at low speed so I think we will be competitive."
Leclerc's Home Race Ambitions
Charles Leclerc, who looked strong from the start in first practice, aims to make his mark on home soil. He has won the Monaco Grand Prix once before, in 2024, and holds three pole positions from seven appearances at the circuit—one more than Hamilton. Leclerc is exceptionally quick over a single lap, and with qualifying crucial in Monaco, Ferrari's potential edge could lead to a direct battle between the two drivers.
Mercedes, McLaren, and Red Bull will not be mere spectators. Driver confidence and the ability to push the car to the limit are decisive factors in Monaco. Kimi Antonelli, leading the championship by 43 points from teammate George Russell, has been thriving in his Mercedes, setting up a gripping qualifying session on Saturday.
Practice Performance
In first practice, Leclerc and Hamilton topped the timesheets, separated by two-tenths of a second but half a second ahead of Max Verstappen in the Red Bull in third. Antonelli and Russell finished fourth and fifth, respectively.
