Monaco Grand Prix FP1 Underway: Mercedes Dominance Faces Street Circuit Test

The first practice session of the Monaco Grand Prix is underway, and the tight streets of the Principality could be the first real test of Mercedes' dominance in 2026. While the Silver Arrows have been near-flawless so far, team principal Toto Wolff warns that performance here is anything but guaranteed, opening the door for rivals to strike.

Why it matters:

Monaco's unique low-speed, high-downforce layout has historically been a great equalizer. A strong showing from Ferrari or Red Bull here could shift the championship narrative and prove that Mercedes isn't invincible, especially on a circuit where driver skill and car handling outweigh raw power.

The big picture:

• Ferrari favorites: McLaren's Andrea Stella and drivers have openly suggested that the Scuderia's car characteristics make them the team to beat this weekend, a rare advantage for the Maranello squad.
• Red Bull's resurgence: After a challenging start to the campaign, Max Verstappen's charge in Canada showed the Milton Keynes outfit can still match the pace. A return to winning ways in Monaco would be a major statement.
• Mercedes' internal battle: Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have traded verbal jabs as the title race heats up; FP1 will be the first on-track chapter of their weekend duel.

What's next:

FP1 and FP2 today should offer early clues about true pace under sunny skies (4% rain chance). However, Sunday's race holds a 25% probability of rain, which could turn the spectacle into a survival game. Keep an eye on Ferrari's lap times around the casino section and Red Bull's high curb management.