The FIA held its pre-race press conference for the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, featuring prominent drivers including Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), Lando Norris (McLaren), and Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing). Key topics included Leclerc's contract extension with Ferrari, the new 2026 car regulations, and challenges faced by young drivers in the sport. While the drivers expressed excitement about the new regulations, they acknowledged that the transition has its challenges, particularly regarding car drivability and performance. Overall, the discussions highlighted an optimistic yet realistic outlook as teams prepare for a highly competitive race at Monaco.

By the Numbers
  • Charles Leclerc signed a contract extension with Ferrari, committing his future to the team.
  • The new 2026 cars are noted for being more agile but less drivable, impacting straight-line speed and corner handling.
State of Play
  • Drivers expect qualifying to be crucial due to the tight track and traffic issues with 22 cars competing.
  • Leclerc believes Monaco is a strong chance for Ferrari, despite current competitiveness favoring Mercedes.
What's Next

The upcoming race at Monaco will serve as a litmus test for the new car regulations, with qualifying likely determining the overall race outcome. Teams will continue to adapt their strategies based on qualifying performances and how well they navigate traffic on the narrow streets.

Bottom Line

The Monaco Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling event, with tight competition among teams and drivers. The results will not only influence the championship standings but also indicate how teams are evolving under the new 2026 regulations.