Formula 1 heads to the Principality for one of the most iconic events on the entire calendar. The Monaco Grand Prix has always represented a unique challenge, a weekend where precision, confidence and execution can matter more than outright performance. For Scuderia Ferrari, the race also carries a special meaning thanks to the presence of Charles Leclerc, who arrives at his home event fresh off a contract renewal with the Prancing Horse.
Monaco as a test for the new generation of F1 cars
This weekend could represent an ideal challenge for this generation of Formula 1 cars. Being more compact, lighter and more agile than their predecessors, they could highlight some of the historic characteristics of the Monaco street circuit, where rapid direction changes and low-speed corners form the core of the challenge.
At 3.337 kilometres in length and with a unique layout in world motorsport, the Principality’s street circuit remains one of the most demanding for both drivers and engineers. Qualifying is traditionally the decisive moment of the weekend, given the extreme difficulty of overtaking through the narrow streets of Monte Carlo.
Energy management will play a different role compared to other circuits due to FIA-imposed changes and the nature of the track, which will not create major difficulties in recovering energy. At the same time, the complete absence of Straight Mode sections will prevent the use of Active Aero throughout the lap, making mechanical performance and driver confidence even more important.
Vasseur: “Every detail can make the difference”
Frederic Vasseur has highlighted how Monaco represents a unique challenge for all teams, especially in a season featuring completely new cars.
“Monaco is always a unique weekend, and this year it will be particularly interesting with the new generation of cars, which should deliver very different sensations. It is a track where qualifying, confidence and execution matter even more than usual, and where every small detail can make the difference.”
The Ferrari Team Principal also underlined the special significance of the race for Charles Leclerc, while reaffirming the team’s usual approach.
“For Charles it is obviously a very special race, at home, in front of his people and a large number of Ferrari fans, and we know how much energy he gets from racing in these conditions. At the same time, our approach does not change: we must stay focused, build the weekend session by session, and ensure we put both drivers in the best possible conditions to extract the maximum from the car.”
Leclerc between contract renewal and home race: “I want to win the World Championship with Ferrari”
For Charles Leclerc, the Monaco weekend comes at a particularly significant moment in his career. The Monegasque driver has just renewed his commitment with Scuderia Ferrari, confirming his intention to continue chasing the world title dream with the Maranello-based team.
“I am very motivated and very happy to continue this journey we are building together over the next few years. There have certainly been ups and downs, but I am really happy that this story continues.”
For the number 16, the objective has always had one clear colour.
“Ferrari has always been my favourite team, and I want to carry on this mission: to win the World Championship with the team I love the most, Ferrari.”
The Monaco Grand Prix remains a special event regardless of results.
“Monaco is my favourite circuit of the year, it is also my favourite weekend, so I hope to enjoy it.”
Leclerc also reflected on the emotions that come with returning to the Principality.
“It is mainly the emotions I felt as a child, when I used to hear the Formula 1 cars passing while I was at school. That is the first feeling that comes back to me, the strongest memory. There is something very special about it, also because living in Monte Carlo you see the build-up of the Grand Prix for months, so the anticipation is felt much more than for other races.”
From a technical perspective, Leclerc sees the Monaco street circuit as a potential opportunity for the new generation of cars.
“I think this is one of the tracks that will suit these cars quite well, because energy will not be such a determining factor: there are so many corners and therefore many good places to recover.”
He also highlighted how the 2026 regulations could enhance the spectacle.
“Also, because of the weight, these are more agile cars and, on a track like this, made almost entirely of slow corners, I think it will be very fun. I can’t wait to try them on track.”
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