Pressure mounting on Ferrari
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton have arrived in Monte Carlo with growing expectations surrounding Ferrari’s chances this weekend. Several figures within the paddock have identified the Scuderia as one of the leading contenders for victory in the Principality.
The strengths of the SF-26 chassis, combined with the reduced importance of power unit performance around Monaco’s tight and twisty layout, make Ferrari one of the teams most likely to challenge at the front. Charles Leclerc himself has not tried to downplay expectations, describing Monaco as the circuit best suited to Ferrari’s current package at this stage of the season, while the team continues to work on improvements to its engine performance.
Marko backs Charles Leclerc
Speaking to the Austrian outlet Oe24, Helmut Marko believes there is a clear favourite heading into the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.
“Mercedes will struggle in the slow corners. I see Leclerc in front because he is very comfortable in that type of corner, and he is my favourite for qualifying. And in Monaco, whoever starts from pole position will win the race,” Helmut Marko said.
The former Red Bull advisor also shared his broader assessment of the opening phase of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
“Mercedes are clearly the strongest team. They have the best engine and are also the benchmark when it comes to battery performance. For the first time since 2021, they have managed to build a competitive chassis again, and they have a strong driver line-up.
“I find it encouraging how Kimi Antonelli is able to make this car fly, but Russell will respond because he is the more experienced driver. Their battle is the only hope for some excitement,” Helmut Marko concluded.
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