As attention in Formula 1 turns to the Monaco Grand Prix, rivals see Ferrari as one of the favorites for the weekend. The teams share the view that Ferrari looks strong in low-speed corners and Monaco highlights these features.
McLaren driver Lando Norris said Ferrari is a strong candidate for pole position and mentioned that he finds the car's low-speed performance better than its rivals. Mercedes' young leader Kimi Antonelli conveyed that he thinks Ferrari's power unit could provide a significant advantage in Monaco.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also evaluated Ferrari as "probably the favorite." Stella emphasized that Ferrari has a competitive chassis especially in corner combinations and that Monaco suits this character.
Why does Ferrari stand out?
Ferrari's performance in Monaco in recent years has been one of the factors feeding this expectation. Although the Maranello team has won here only once, in 2014, the narrow street layout and kerb usage are seen as a track suitable for Ferrari's nature.
The team's strength in short corners stands out as a feature that can make a difference especially in the first sector of the track. Since Monaco has medium-speed sections as well as slow corners, it is thought that teams that build a balanced package can gain an advantage.
Comments about Ferrari's power unit have also increased expectations. It is considered that the small turbo structure can provide an advantage on corner exits, improving throttle response especially in tight spaces. This situation may become more visible on a track like Monaco, which demands traction and positioning more than power.
Monaco's different rules change the balance
However, Monaco offers a completely different technical window compared to previous races of the season. New limits on the use of the electric part may reduce the impact of differences between power units. Although the track offers high energy harvesting opportunities, MGU-K usage is expected to be more limited than on many other tracks.
This scenario may also cover some of Ferrari's weaknesses on the power side. Rivals compensating corner exits by using more battery energy may not have as severe consequences as on other tracks.
The McLaren side also thinks their car could be compatible with Monaco. Stella said McLaren could be strong in some very slow corners and that the low-speed character could become decisive on this track. It is also stated that Mercedes can stay in the game in medium-speed sections.
While Mercedes' dominance in the first part of the season stands out, it is commented that Ferrari needs to find a few tenths of a second in qualifying laps. The importance of single-lap performance in Monaco makes this difference even more critical.
Leclerc seeks opportunity at home
Charles Leclerc said he always enjoys competing in Monaco and that he can achieve a more natural driving feel on this track with the 2026 car. Leclerc stated that this weekend could be one of the strongest opportunities in the season especially for pole position.
Leclerc's driving style relies on the ability to dance the car at the limit. However, new generation power units and energy management have made this style difficult in some races. Frequent battery charging and more natural energy usage in Monaco may work in Leclerc's favor.
Lewis Hamilton arrives in Monaco after one of his strongest weekends in Canada with Ferrari colors. On the Ferrari side, this situation is being closely watched both in terms of car performance and the potential of the two drivers in qualifying laps.
The Monaco weekend will be one of the first big tests to show whether Ferrari can really stand out. Rivals' expectations are high, but the extreme character of the track keeps the race balance open until the last moment.