Key facts
- Ferrari's car and power unit are expected to be well-suited for the Monaco circuit.
- Ferrari's strength this season has been in acceleration, particularly from slow corners.
- Monaco's circuit features many slow corners where acceleration is crucial.
- Starting with the best track position is key to winning at Monaco.
- Lando Norris expects Ferrari to be on pole position at Monaco.
Formula 1 is heading to Monaco for its Grand Prix, a race that has been largely dominated by Mercedes this season, with the exception of a Sprint race win by McLaren's Lando Norris. However, Ferrari is seen as having a strong opportunity to challenge this dominance due to their car's characteristics. Ferrari's car and power unit are anticipated to be well-suited for the tight and twisty Monaco circuit, particularly excelling in acceleration out of slow corners. This strength is evident from race starts throughout the season. Monaco's numerous slow corners, including the hotel hairpin and La Rascasse, emphasize the importance of acceleration and exiting corners effectively, rather than relying on straight-line speed. This plays to Ferrari's strengths, as their car is not as reliant on top speed. Finding time in slow corners during qualifying could lead to pole position, which is a significant advantage on a circuit where overtaking is extremely difficult. Reigning champion Lando Norris also anticipates Ferrari starting from pole, citing their superior low-speed performance. While potential issues like weather, contact with walls, or technical problems could still affect the outcome, Ferrari's best chance to secure a strong track position and potentially win this season appears to be at Monaco.