F1: Monaco Grand Prix Preview and Betting Tips

Known as the ‘jewel in the Formula 1 crown’, the race will see a mandatory two-stop for the first time in an attempt to add some spice through position changes via inspired strategy calls. In addition to that, teams must use three different sets of tyres during a race.

Max Verstappen’s brilliant overtake on pole-sitter Oscar Piastri at the first corner of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix saw the four-time world champion become a legitimate contender in the title race. After the Miami GP, it seemed that McLaren’s Piastri (four wins) and Lando (one win) would be the contenders. 

The trio head to Monaco separated by 18 points. Let’s preview the race and find out who the favourites are.

The Track

Brace yourself for 78 laps around the 3.37km street circuit along the French Riviera. It’s arguably the most beautiful race on the calendar and one where deals are made between sponsors and teams.

Three-time F1 champion Nelson Piquet famously described driving around Monaco as “like riding a bicycle around your living room”. Tight, narrow, and twisty, it’s virtually impossible to overtake on track. In modern F1 cars, which are the size of big SUVs, it requires skill to navigate these 1000hp machines around this iconic street circuit. Full throttle is only used 59% of the lap with a top speed of 290km/h registered through the tunnel section. The maximum downforce level is dialed in because of the track’s slow nature and the slightest mistake can be detrimental to a trip into the barriers.

Who are the favourites? Grabbing pole is key

Last week we emphasised the importance of qualifying at Imola, and in Monaco, it’s even more vital. The Saturday spectacle is marvelous to watch because the drivers know how important it is to thread the car rapidly yet carefully through iconic corners such as Ste Devote, Mirabeau, and Tabac.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has a home-ground advantage in Monaco, although several drivers call the principality home. The Monegasque has started on pole in three of the past four years, however, the scarlet car lacks the pace of the McLaren and Red Bull.

Red Bull was faster than McLaren in Imola, but that advantage doesn’t stick in Monaco where track position is vital. Verstappen has won this race twice in the last four seasons and seems to have the bit between his teeth in recent races. Therefore, the Dutch driver’s experience gives him the edge on Saturday to grab pole ahead of Piastri and Norris.

If Red Bull can ace the two-stops on Sunday it will force McLaren to try the overcut and we’ll see some action based on strategy calls.

Other drivers to look out for include Lewis Hamilton and Alex Albon. The Ferrari driver scored fourth place at Imola which raised his confidence levels in the car. The seven-time champion is also vastly experienced here with three wins. Albon, in the Williams, has shown fortitude and class and finished fifth in the last two races.

Predictions

Grand Prix Winner: Max Verstappen

Grand Prix podium: Verstappen, Piastri, Norris

Pole position: Verstappen

Top 4 and 5: Russell, Albon

Race Winning Margin: Under 5 seconds

Fastest lap: Piastri

First to retire: Hulkenberg

First car to retire: Sauber

Most Team Points: McLaren

Both Cars Qualify for Q3 Shootout: Red Bull

Practice 1/2/3 Winning Car: Norris/ McLaren

Safety Car: Yes

Fastest pit stop: Ferrari