Watch Formula 1 Monaco GP — Practice 1 Free.

What's at Stake

The opening practice session in Monte Carlo is arguably the most critical Friday running of the entire season. On a circuit where confidence is everything, drivers must immediately find their rhythm between the unforgiving Armco barriers to prepare for a qualifying session that historically dictates the race result. With the 2026 technical regulations in their debut year, teams will be desperate to see how their new power units and aero packages handle the slowest, most undulating layout on the calendar.

Form Guide

Heading into the crown jewel of the Mediterranean, the championship battle has begun to stabilize following the early-season flyaway rounds. Momentum is key in Monaco, and teams with high-mechanical grip and strong low-speed traction have shown the most promise in recent outings. However, the unique nature of this street circuit often disrupts the established pecking order, rewarding driver bravery over raw engine horsepower.

Key Players to Watch

• Charles Leclerc — The local hero always carries immense pressure and possesses unrivaled single-lap pace around these familiar streets.
• Max Verstappen — A master of precision who excels at finding the limit of the track without crossing it during high-stakes sessions.
• Lewis Hamilton — The veteran's extensive experience in Monaco is invaluable for navigating traffic and optimizing car setup on a green track.

Prediction

Expect a cautious start to the session as drivers "rubber in" the surface, with lap times tumbling significantly in the final twenty minutes. Ferrari and Red Bull are likely to trade the top spots, but a narrow margin will separate the top three teams as they prioritize setup over outright speed. The session will likely end with a Ferrari atop the timing screens, as their chassis traditionally excels in the tightest sectors of the Principality.