Charles Leclerc is not feeling too optimistic about Ferrari’s chances of repeating their 2024 home win at the F1 Monaco Grand Prix. Last year, Leclerc celebrated a much-awaited victory on his home streets, finally overcoming years of disappointment and close calls at the Monaco Grand Prix. The win was a significant moment for Ferrari, kickstarting their season with wins for both Leclerc and his teammate Carlos Sainz, along with several podium finishes.
However, Ferrari’s fortunes took a turn when McLaren surged ahead of the competition, leaving Ferrari struggling to keep up. Despite a late recovery in the season, Ferrari has fallen short of its targets for the 2025 car, lagging behind McLaren and being outscored by Mercedes and Max Verstappen’s Red Bull. The team’s specific weakness in low-speed corners has proved to be a significant challenge, especially at a track like Monaco, known for its narrow and winding layout.
Leclerc acknowledged the team’s struggles, admitting that the SF-25’s performance in low-speed corners does not bode well for their chances at Monaco. He expressed uncertainty about Ferrari’s prospects, emphasizing the importance of qualifying given the track’s unique characteristics. Leclerc remains hopeful for a surprise turnaround, recalling past instances where unexpected results were achieved at Monaco.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Leclerc and Ferrari are not giving up hope. The team is working tirelessly to optimize their set-up for Monaco’s low-speed demands, hoping to discover new insights that could enhance their performance. With the unpredictability of Monaco’s challenging circuit, Ferrari is keeping an open mind and focusing on maximizing their potential in the upcoming race.
Monaco presents a unique challenge for teams, requiring a specialized approach to low-speed performance. Ferrari’s task is to adapt their car to excel in the tight corners and narrow confines of the circuit, a task that Leclerc acknowledges as a daunting but essential one. As the team prepares for the Monaco Grand Prix, the focus remains on finding the right balance and maximizing their chances in a race where surprises are always possible.
