F1 Monaco Showdown: All Eyes on McLaren After Verstappen’s Imola Win

Formula One fans were reminded of why Max Verstappen remains the man to beat by his recent triumph at Imola. However, as the focus turns to the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, everyone is watching McLaren, who are ready to retaliate on a track that plays to their advantages.

With 15 victories under their belt and a history of dominance on Monaco’s winding, narrow streets, McLaren is looking to surpass rivals Red Bull and Ferrari in round eight of the 2025 season. Oscar Piastri, the team’s young star, is currently ahead of teammate Lando Norris by 13 points, paving the way for a fierce intra-team matchup in Monte Carlo.

Piastri, who placed second in Monaco the previous year, is upbeat. “I like this circuit. I had a great weekend last year. “Hopefully, we can do even better this year,” he said.

As the team attempts to catch up to Red Bull, his teammate Norris, who last appeared on the Monaco podium in 2021, is also aiming for a strong showing. Because of the circuit’s notoriously difficult overtaking, qualifying will be very important, especially in light of a new two-stop strategy rule that aims to intensify the competition.

Conversely, Red Bull is cautiously optimistic. Christian Horner, the team’s principal, claims that the victory in Imola gave the team new life despite Verstappen’s setbacks in Monaco the previous season. At this point in the championship, Horner said, “that’s important.”

Verstappen himself is still taciturn. “Last year was challenging for us. This time, I don’t think it will be any simpler. However, we’ll see,” he said.

Charles Leclerc of Ferrari, the winner of Monaco the previous year and the first Monegasque to win the home race during the championship era, is also feeling pressure going into the weekend. Due to qualifying problems, Ferrari was unable to get either car into the third qualifying round at Imola.

“We anticipate a difficult weekend,” Leclerc acknowledged. Monaco, however, is distinct. We still have a chance to achieve a good outcome if we adjust well.

After a lackluster performance in Imola, Mercedes is also hoping for redemption. The team may have a chance thanks to George Russell’s impressive qualifying performances this season, particularly on a circuit where Sunday’s result is frequently determined by Saturday’s grid positions.

“Qualification is crucial in this race,” Russell stated. “I’m sure we can deliver.”

Six drivers, including Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, will be visiting Monaco in an F1 car for the first time, which heightens the excitement. However, having gained experience in junior divisions, they will be keen to establish themselves in one of the most recognizable motorsport venues.

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Sourced:Supersport

Picture: F1/X