As the Formula 1 paddock gears up for the legendary Monaco Grand Prix, an unexpected admission has emerged from McLaren. British star Lando Norris has tipped Scuderia Ferrari as the team to beat for pole position on the Rock. This isn’t just a prediction; it’s an analysis revealing the technical nuances that could decide the outcome of the Monaco race.
Ferrari: Queen of Monaco’s Slow Corners?
The Monaco circuit, with its narrow streets and intricate sequences of corners, pushes both cars and drivers to their absolute limits. In this demanding environment, Ferrari’s SF-24 appears to possess a key advantage: formidable efficiency in slow-speed corners and exceptional traction. These traits, which have been hallmarks of Maranello’s machinery in recent years, are particularly rewarded on this unique street circuit. Any deficit in outright power, often a weakness against Mercedes’ power units, is far less of a penalty here. This is why Lando Norris, the reigning world champion, doesn’t hesitate to place Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton as favourites to secure pole position.
Norris’s Verdict: “Ferrari Will Be on Pole”
“Honestly, I think Ferrari will be on pole next weekend in Monaco,” Norris stated clearly after the Canadian Grand Prix. “Their performance in the slow corners is much better than anyone else’s.” The Briton, eagerly anticipating his return to the Principality where he shone last year, tempers his optimism, however: “I had good results there, it was one of my best weekends, and one of the most exciting. But in areas where we know we struggle, there’s nothing that gives me confidence that we’re going to be amazing. You never know.”
Stella Confirms: Ferrari’s Chassis is a Major Asset
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella shares his driver’s perspective. GPS data analysis backs up Norris’s claims: “When we look at the GPS data overlays, we see that Ferrari clearly has a competitive chassis in the corners, particularly in the first sector,” explains the Italian. “And it’s not just a low-speed sector; it’s also a sector with kerbs. These are generally characteristics that are rewarded on a circuit like Monaco.”
Monaco: Where Raw Power Matters Less
“Furthermore, we see, for example in Canada, that Ferrari loses time on the straights, but there are practically none in Monaco,” Stella continues. “So I think Lando is absolutely right to consider Ferrari the favourite for pole in Monaco.” This technical assessment highlights the specific nature of the Monaco layout, where agility and the ability to navigate tight corners take precedence over pure engine performance. A scenario that could bring renewed success for the Scuderia.
McLaren enjoyed great success in Monaco in 2025.
McLaren: Still Has a Card to Play
Despite these favourable predictions for Ferrari, Andrea Stella is not giving up hope for McLaren. The Woking squad has also shown notable progress, particularly with its updated MCL60 car. “We can clearly say that at its current stage of development, the McLaren is probably more comfortable in slow corners than in medium and high-speed corners, where we see Ferrari and Mercedes being superior,” he concedes. “This should put us in a good position for Monaco.”
The Challenge of Monaco’s Fast Corners
However, the McLaren boss reminds us that Monaco isn’t just a succession of slow bends. “At the same time, contrary to what one might think, Monaco features several medium and high-speed corners. Casino is taken at over 150 km/h, Tabac at 170-180 km/h, and the Swimming Pool complex at over 200 km/h. Performance in fast corners is therefore important in Monaco, even if some sections are extremely slow.” This distinction is crucial: if Ferrari dominates the twisty sections, McLaren could seek to exploit the faster parts to stay in contention.
An Open Duel for Victory
In conclusion, while McLaren acknowledges Ferrari’s theoretical strength for the Monaco Grand Prix, the British team has no intention of conceding defeat. “I clearly consider Ferrari the favourite, but McLaren can be competitive, and we will try to replicate the feat achieved last year in Monaco,” states Stella. The battle promises to be thrilling, blending technical forecasts with the teams’ ability to maximise their potential on one of the most iconic circuits on the Formula 1 calendar.
- Ferrari, favourite thanks to its efficiency in slow corners.
- McLaren acknowledges the SF-24’s potential on the Rock.
- Monaco, an atypical circuit where engine power is less decisive.
- McLaren remains hopeful of repeating last year’s performance.
- The duel looks set to be close, despite initial predictions.
