This weekend, the F1 circus travels to Monaco, the unofficial homeland of the premier class. The iconic race is often compared to a parade these days, but for many drivers, it remains a special stop on the calendar – a challenge that requires utmost concentration. For home hero Charles Leclerc, ‘the crown jewel’ is perhaps the most special. According to experts, Ferrari has the best chances, although team boss Fred Vasseur doesn’t want to celebrate too early.
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“Monaco is always a unique weekend and this year it will be extra interesting with the new cars,” the Frenchman looked ahead via the team channels. “They will give a completely different feeling.” Because the cars have become a fraction narrower and lighter, Sunday’s race could potentially be more exciting than in previous years. Moreover, the street circuit demands extreme precision; mistakes are mercilessly punished by the unforgiving walls. “The track demands strong qualifying, confidence, and perfection,” Vasseur noted. “Every detail can make the difference.”
Leclerc – the uncrowned prince of Monaco – has the advantage of racing in front of his home crowd this weekend. “For him, this is of course a very special race, with his own people and a large number of Ferrari fans around him. We know how much energy he gets from racing under these circumstances,” Vasseur continued. Nevertheless, Ferrari will also have to deliver in Monaco. “Our approach remains unchanged: we must stay focused, work session by session, and ensure that both drivers get the best possible chance to get the most out of the car.”
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Motivation
Ferrari secured Leclerc with a multi-year contract extension in the run-up to his home race. This provides extra motivation, as the 28-year-old driver confirmed. “I am extremely motivated and very happy that we are continuing this journey together in the coming years,” said Leclerc. “There have been ups and downs, but I am grateful that we can continue this adventure. Ferrari is close to my heart and I want to continue working on our shared mission: to become world champion with the team I love so much.”
About his upcoming home race, he said: “Monaco is my favorite circuit of the year and also my favorite race weekend. I hope to enjoy every moment. This race has something special, obviously because I live in Monaco and I have seen the circuit slowly come back to life in recent months. That builds much more excitement than any other race.” After multiple retirements and disappointments, Leclerc finally broke his ‘Monaco curse’ in 2024 by becoming the first Monegasque ever to win his home race. Last year, he came close to success again, but couldn’t make a stand against Lando Norris and his fast McLaren.
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