Charles Leclerc believes in Ferrari’s Monaco chances but warns Mercedes are still the benchmark. Charles Leclerc is optimistic about Ferrari’s chances at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Leclerc dreams of back-to-back Monaco wins: “If I had to bet on us anywhere, it would be here. But Mercedes remain the favourites”

Few moments in Charles Leclerc’s Formula 1 career can rival the emotion of his victory at the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix. After years of chasing success on the streets of his home city, and after seeing previous opportunities slip away through misfortune and bad luck, the Monegasque finally fulfilled a lifelong dream.

Now, one year later, he is hoping to experience that feeling all over again.

In a season that has so far been dominated by Mercedes, Monaco represents what may be the best chance for rival teams to challenge the Silver Arrows. The unique characteristics of the Principality’s circuit help conceal Ferrari’s biggest weakness — its Power Unit deficit — while highlighting the strengths of both the SF-26 and Charles Leclerc’s exceptional qualifying pace.

It is therefore no surprise that the Ferrari driver arrived at Thursday’s press conference with a degree of confidence about his prospects for the weekend.

Leclerc’s comments ahead of his home race

“Norris says we are the favourites? I don’t agree,” Charles Leclerc said when asked about the predictions made by the McLaren driver.

“I think we are in a better situation than at other circuits. If there is one track where I would bet on us, it is Monaco. However, I believe Mercedes have had a significant advantage since the start of the year, and I also expect McLaren and Red Bull to be strong here.”

While Charles Leclerc acknowledged that Monaco could provide Ferrari with a unique opportunity, he was careful not to underestimate the challenge posed by the reigning frontrunners.

“It’s true that we have struggled on the straights at other circuits, while we have a strong chassis package. This track could help us because the engine is less of a factor here. But Mercedes will still be the team to beat,” he added.

The comments reflect the growing belief that Monaco may offer Ferrari its best chance yet to fight for victory in 2026. With overtaking notoriously difficult and qualifying performance often determining the outcome of the race, the combination of Ferrari’s low-speed strengths and Charles Leclerc’s proven pace around the streets of Monte Carlo could make the Scuderia a genuine contender.

Nevertheless, the 28-year-old remains realistic about the challenge ahead. Mercedes have set the benchmark throughout the season, and despite Monaco’s unique demands, the Monegasque knows that overcoming the championship leaders will require a near-perfect weekend.

For Ferrari and its home hero, however, the dream of another memorable Monaco triumph is very much alive.