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Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix

The 2025 Formula 1 season moves to Shanghai for the Chinese Grand Prix, introducing the first sprint race of the year. Here’s DRC’s preview for the weekend.

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Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix

The 2025 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix marks an exciting return to Shanghai International Circuit, one of the most technically demanding tracks on the calendar. This race is particularly significant as it hosts the first Sprint Race of the season, intensifying the weekend’s schedule and adding an extra layer of unpredictability.

The event comes amid a major technical shake-up as the FIA implements new rear-wing flexibility regulations, which could impact the competitive order. With teams still adapting to the latest car developments and tire strategies, this weekend in China is poised to be a turning point in the season.

Shanghai International Circuit Overview

The Shanghai International Circuit, a 5.451 km Hermann Tilke design, is a demanding mix of long straights, heavy braking zones, and technical corners. The 1.2 km back straight offers prime DRS overtaking, while Turn 1’s spiral and Turn 14’s hairpin test braking precision. Tire wear, especially on the front-left, is key, forcing teams to balance straight-line speed with cornering grip. Past races have seen Hamilton’s 2007 pit lane mistake and Ricciardo’s 2018 charge, and with the first Sprint Race and flexi-wing rule changes, 2025 promises another thriller.

Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix

Track layout (Credits: formula1)

Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix

Tyre Compounds (Credits: Formula1)

For the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix, Pirelli has selected the C2, C3, and C4 compounds as the hard, medium, and soft tires, respectively. This allocation is one step harder than the selection for the Australian Grand Prix, reflecting Shanghai’s track characteristics. The circuit has been resurfaced recently, which may affect tire performance and grip levels. Additionally, the front-left tire is expected to experience significant stress due to the track layout, necessitating careful management by teams and drivers. With the first Sprint weekend of the season, teams have 12 sets of dry tires—two hard, four medium, and six soft—along with intermediates and full wets. Managing these allocations effectively will be crucial for a successful weekend.​

Technical Update: FIA’s Flexi-Wing Crackdown

The FIA’s new rear-wing flexibility tests could shake up the competitive order. Teams found to be pushing the limits on rear-wing flex could face performance losses or even disqualifications.

McLaren and Ferrari have expressed confidence that the rule change won’t significantly affect them, but Red Bull’s aerodynamic advantage could be tested.

McLaren: Norris and Piastri Enter the Fray

McLaren heads to China with momentum, after Lando Norris’ stunning victory in Australia put him at the top of the championship standings. Oscar Piastri, however, had a more difficult outing, finishing only ninth in his home race.

With Shanghai featuring long straights and a mix of slow-speed corners, McLaren’s aerodynamic efficiency will be tested. Norris, who finished on the podium here last year, is optimistic:

“I’m confident that when we go to China next weekend, we can be very strong because we were strong there last year with not a very good car.”

Mercedes Closing the Gap to the Front

Mercedes arrives in Shanghai looking to build on early-season momentum and further develop their W16 challenger. The first Sprint Race of the year means limited practice time, so the team must adapt quickly to the circuit’s demands.

George Russell, eager to challenge for another strong result, sees the Chinese Grand Prix as a crucial test for Mercedes:

“Shanghai is a demanding track, especially with tire wear and long corners, but we’ve made clear progress with the car. The Sprint format makes things more intense, so we need to maximize every session.”

His teammate, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, faces a new challenge at a circuit he has never raced on before in Formula 1 machinery. Despite this, the young Italian remains focused on learning quickly and delivering a strong result: “Every race is a new learning experience, and I’m excited to take on Shanghai. The long back straight will be key for overtaking, and managing tire degradation will be crucial.”

Team Principal Toto Wolff remains optimistic about Mercedes’ development and feels that they have made a solid step forward. Still being optimistic about unlocking more performance with efficiency due to sprint weekend and less time to fine tune the car.

Verstappen Seeks Redemption in Shanghai

Red Bull enters the Chinese Grand Prix aiming to fine-tune their RB21 after a challenging start to the season. Max Verstappen, a past winner in Shanghai, remains focused on extracting the most from the car in the Sprint weekend’s limited running:

“Shanghai is a fun track with lots of overtaking opportunities, but tire management will be key. We need to be sharp from the first session to get everything right for the weekend.”

Max Verstappen looks on in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix at Shanghai International Circuit.
SHANGHAI, CHINA – MARCH 20: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of China at Shanghai International Circuit on March 20, 2025 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202503200073 // Usage for editorial use only //

Teammate Liam Lawson, still adjusting to the demands of a full-time F1 seat, is excited about his first race at the circuit: “I’ve done plenty of simulator work to prepare, but experiencing the track in real life will be different. It’s going to be a big challenge with just one practice session, but I’m ready for it.”

Hamilton and Leclerc Looking for a Breakthrough

Ferrari approaches the Chinese Grand Prix with determination to improve upon their recent performances. Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur emphasizes the importance of the upcoming race: “It’s good that we are back on track just a few days after racing in Australia, as Shanghai will give us the opportunity to turn the page and move on immediately.” He acknowledges the challenges posed by the Sprint weekend format, which limits free practice time, and underscores the critical role of the team’s preparatory work at the Maranello factory and simulator support during the event. Vasseur adds,

Charles and Lewis both like the Shanghai track, and we must ensure we do everything we can to allow them to get the most out of the SF-25.”

Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton at the Australian GP – Photo – Ferrari Media Centre.

As Ferrari gears up for the first Sprint weekend of the season, the focus remains on optimizing performance and strategy to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the unique challenges of the Shanghai circuit.

Williams Racing looking to Build-up on Early Success

Williams arrives in Shanghai with growing confidence following a strong Australian Grand Prix, where Alex Albon finished fifth, securing valuable points. Carlos Sainz, in his first season with the team, had a tougher weekend but remains optimistic.

Albon is focused on maintaining momentum: “Australia was a really strong way to start the year with a great result for the team. We need to build on this momentum and pick up where we left off going into China this weekend.”

Meanwhile, Sainz is looking forward to the Sprint format to get his season back on track:
“Australia was a great start to the season for the team, although it proved more challenging for me. We will take all our learnings from Melbourne and focus our attention on China; our first Sprint event of the season and a good opportunity to get my season going.”

Albon seems well-adapted to the car, but Sainz will be keen to bounce back. Both drivers could fight for points if the setup is right.

Aston Martin Navigating Challenges in Shanghai

Aston Martin arrives at the Shanghai International Circuit for the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix, aiming to build on recent performances and address the challenges faced with their AMR25 car. The team acknowledges that while the car performs well in high-speed sections, it struggles in slower corners, as evidenced by a three-tenths deficit in the final sector at Albert Park compared to competitors like Red Bull. ​

Lance Stroll demonstrated resilience in the season opener, securing a sixth-place finish amidst challenging conditions. His ability to capitalize on chaotic races showcases his experience and adaptability, qualities that will be crucial in Shanghai’s demanding environment.​ Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso, reflecting on his enduring competitiveness, stated: He remains optimistic about the team’s potential, emphasizing the need to understand and address the car’s weaknesses.​

“I debuted in 2001, competed in the first GP of China in 2004, and in 2025, I am as fast as in 2004, or even faster.”

Alpine F1 Team: Harnessing Promising Pace

Alpine showed flashes of speed in Australia but failed to convert it into points. Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan are determined to change that in Shanghai.

Gasly remains optimistic despite the Melbourne result:
“It was disappointing to leave Melbourne without scoring points after showing promising pace across the weekend in a variety of conditions. However, I am pleased with the overall package and am confident heading to Shanghai for the first Sprint weekend of the year.”

For rookie Jack Doohan, this race is special, as he has past success at this track:
“I have fond memories of the circuit from past visits, including a win in Asian F3, and it will be a fun challenge in a Formula One car.”

If Alpine can fine-tune their setup quickly, Gasly could fight for points, while Doohan will focus on gaining experience.

Visa Cash App RB: Embracing the Sprint Challenge

Visa Cash App RB showed strong pace in Melbourne, giving Yuki Tsunoda and rookie Isack Hadjar confidence heading into Shanghai.

Tsunoda is excited about the weekend:
“The Shanghai track is quite unique, I do like it and I feel we can have a strong weekend. Our performance level every time we were on track in Melbourne was very good so if we have a straightforward FP1, picking up where we left off, we can do well.”

Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix
Isack Hadjar in the Drivers Press Conference during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of China at Shanghai International Circuit on March 20, 2025 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool.

Hadjar, still learning in his debut season, sees the Sprint as a valuable opportunity:
“I am still lacking race experience so it’s good that this will be a Sprint weekend, as I will have the short race to get a feel for it before the main one.”

Tsunoda has the pace to challenge for points, while Hadjar will use the weekend to gain experience.

MoneyGram Haas F1 Team: Aiming for a Strong Comeback in Shanghai

After a challenging season opener in Melbourne, MoneyGram Haas F1 Team is focused on leveraging lessons learned as they head to the Shanghai International Circuit for the Chinese Grand Prix. The team is eager to capitalize on the unique opportunities presented by the first Sprint event of the season.​

Esteban Ocon, who has prior experience at Shanghai, including a top 10 finish in 2017, is looking forward to the technical challenges the track offers: “Shanghai is a very interesting track. It has a very technical layout and it’s great to have it back on the calendar.” ​

Rookie Oliver Bearman is eager to make his debut at the Shanghai International Circuit: “I’m very excited to go to China… I’m looking forward to the first Sprint—it’s definitely going to be a challenge as I haven’t driven the track before—but it’s a challenge I’m ready to take on.”

With the Sprint format allowing only a single practice session, the team acknowledges the need for quick adaptation and efficient decision-making to optimize performance throughout the weekend

Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber: Looking for Strong Points Finish in Shanghai

Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber heads to Shanghai aiming to capitalize on their promising start to the season. The first Sprint weekend of the year adds extra intensity, requiring quick adaptability and precise decision-making from both drivers. Nico Hülkenberg, who secured the team’s first points in Australia, is optimistic:

“Starting the season with points in Melbourne was a great result for the team, giving us positive momentum heading into China. Sprint race weekends bring an added level of intensity, so we need to be sharp from the start.”

His teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, will face another steep learning curve as he makes his Shanghai debut in F1 machinery. The Brazilian rookie is embracing the challenge:
“Every new track in F1 is a learning process for me, but I’ve worked hard in the simulator to be ready. The long back straight and slow corners will make this an interesting race, and I’m excited to get on track.”

Weather Forecast

Sprint, Strategy, and Shanghai: Key Battles to Watch at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix

(Credits: Formula1)

​The 2025 Chinese Grand Prix weekend at the Shanghai International Circuit is expected to feature warm and dry conditions:

Friday, March 21:

  • Conditions: Sunny with a light breeze; gusts up to 40 kph.
  • Temperature: High of 24°C.​
  • Chance of Rain: 0%.​

Saturday, March 22:

  • Conditions: Sunny with gentle breezes; gusts up to 35-40 kph in the evening.​
  • Temperature: High of 25°C.​
  • Chance of Rain: 0%.​

Sunday, March 23:

  • Conditions: Partly cloudy with a gentle breeze; gusts up to 35 kph.​
  • Temperature: High of 27°C.​
  • Chance of Rain: 1%

These stable weather conditions should provide teams with consistent track performance throughout the event.

Weekend schedule

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Formula 1

Piastri For The Win, McLaren Double Podium, Max Receives 3 Penalty Points: 2025 Spanish GP Review

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Oscar Piastri celebrates after winning the Spanish GP

Oscar Piastri delivered a masterclass in Barcelona, capping off a rollercoaster triple-header with a dominant win at the Spanish Grand Prix. The weekend was filled with uncertainty following the FIA’s new Technical Directive clamping down on flexi-wings, forcing every team except McLaren to scramble with upgrades. In the end, it was Piastri who capitalised on the chaos.

Piastri was in a league of his own all weekend, topping two of three practice sessions, grabbing pole with the largest margin of the season, and controlling the race from lights to flag. Calm, calculated, and clinical—this was a coming-of-age drive from the Aussie, who now leads the World Drivers’ Championship by 10 points.

Teammate Lando Norris made it a McLaren front row lockout, though he briefly lost P2 to Max Verstappen at the start. A smooth move down the inside of Turn 1 reclaimed the spot, and Norris brought the car home for a strong 1-2 finish, underlining McLaren’s dominance.

Embed from Getty Images


Max Verstappen Nears A Race Ban

Max Verstappen’s weekend was turbulent. He qualified P3 and had a lightning start to slot into P2, but that was as good as it got. Red Bull’s risky 3-stop strategy was undone by a late Safety Car, forcing Max onto hard tyres no one else dared to use.

A flurry of battles followed, and contact with George Russell. The stewards slapped Verstappen with a 10-second penalty and 3 penalty points, leaving him just one point away from a race ban. The reigning champ now walks a razor’s edge heading into Montreal.

Piastri For The Win, McLaren Double Podium, Max Receives 3 Penalty Points: 2025 Spanish GP Review
BARCELONA, SPAIN – JUNE 01: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 leads Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes George Russell of Great Britain driving the (63) Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team W16 and the rest of the field at the start during the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on June 01, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool


Leclerc Lands A Top 3

Charles Leclerc fought his way from a P7 start to finish third, claiming his first-ever Spanish GP podium. A strong opening lap and a razor-sharp Safety Car restart helped him leapfrog Verstappen.

His teammate Lewis Hamilton had a contrasting story. After qualifying P5, he was overtaken by Nico Hülkenberg late in the race and finished P6. Post-race, a dejected Hamilton said there were “no positives” to take from the weekend.


Merc’s Bittersweet Weekend

George Russell had a quietly strong weekend, qualifying P4 and securing P4 in the race, surviving the Verstappen clash and banking valuable points. Rookie Kimi Antonelli wasn’t as lucky. An engine failure forced his retirement, marking the first time in triple-header history that a Mercedes driver failed to score points.


Sauber In The Top 5

Sauber shocked the paddock. Nico Hülkenberg, starting P15, carved his way through the field with some smart overtakes and Safety Car timing to finish P5, his best result since 2019. Teammate Bortoleto also impressed, showing glimpses of pace before fading late.

Two Sides Of The Home Race

For Spanish fans, it was a weekend of extremes. Carlos Sainz suffered a Q1 exit and could only recover to P14, yet another home race disappointment for Williams. Albon also had a disappointing weekend, contact when being overtaken resulted in front wing damage, forcing him to retire.

Fernando Alonso, on the other hand, gave the crowd something to cheer about. With daring late-race moves, he scored his first points of the season, offering a glimmer of hope for Aston Martin. Lance Stroll, still managing a wrist issue from 2023, withdrew before lights out, casting doubt on his home GP appearance in Canada.

Race Results



Standings



Next Race Weekend In Montreal

Oscar Piastri now leads the WDC by 10 points over his teammate, and both McLarens will be looking to extend their lead at the top
Max will need to keep his nose clean, as with just 1 more penalty point, he will be banned for a race.
Home Hero Lance Stroll is still doubtful to appear at his home race, which means one of Aston Martin’s reserves may get an opportunity to prove themselves.

Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X/, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

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Monaco GP: Norris Triumphs In The Principality

Lando Norris got his first ever win on the streets of Monaco, something he said is a “childhood dream come true”.

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Lando Norris celebrates after winning the Formula 1 Monaco GP
Credits: Formula 1

Lando Norris delivered a masterclass at the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, securing a crucial win that reignites his title campaign. After a weekend that started on shaky footing, the McLaren driver produced what many are calling “the lap of a generation” to snatch pole position, smashing the all-time Monaco lap record in the process.

On race day, Norris maintained his lead off the line despite a bold challenge from local hero Charles Leclerc. From there, the Briton managed the race expertly until the closing stages, when an unconventional strategy by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen allowed Leclerc to close a previously six-second gap to within striking distance. At one point, the Ferrari was just 0.235 seconds behind, but Norris kept his cool and his lead.

With Verstappen finally pitting on the final lap, Norris had clear air to stretch his legs, setting the fastest lap of the race, nearly three seconds quicker than his pace while stuck behind the Red Bull. It was a statement win on one of Formula 1’s most prestigious stages.

Home Hero Just Misses Out on Repeat Glory

Charles Leclerc had high hopes of repeating his 2024 home triumph, especially after topping all three practice sessions. With Ferrari’s car well-suited to the unique demands of Monaco’s low-speed layout, expectations were sky-high. However, a second-place result in qualifying left him just shy of a clear view.

At lights out, Leclerc saw a glimmer of opportunity at Turn 1 but found the door closed by Norris. Despite closing the gap significantly late in the race, he ran out of laps to make a decisive move. It was a strong result, but not quite the fairytale finish the Monegasque fans were hoping for.

Embed from Getty Images

Verstappen’s Gamble Falls Short

Max Verstappen’s P4 finish tells only part of his story. After being promoted to fourth on the grid following a penalty for Lewis Hamilton, the Dutchman found himself leading several laps thanks to an aggressive long-run strategy. Slowing the leaders and hoping for a red flag, Verstappen attempted to steal victory through race interruption, but the miracle never came.

Still, a decent haul of points helps keep him within range in the championship battle. Meanwhile, teammate Yuki Tsunoda endured another torrid weekend. An early collision with Pierre Gasly dropped him to the back, and he eventually crossed the line in P17.

Monaco GP: Norris Triumphs In The Principality
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202505250572 // Usage for editorial use only //

Racing Bulls Execute Perfect Team Strategy

Visa Cash App RB delivered a strategic masterpiece in Monaco. Rookie Isack Hadjar stunned the paddock with a career-best qualifying in P6, while teammate Liam Lawson lined up P9. In the race, Lawson played the ultimate team role, intentionally backing up the field to allow Hadjar a clean pit window and a shot at the front runners.

The result? P6 for Hadjar and P8 for Lawson, the pair’s best result in Formula 1 to date. Smart, calculated, and perfectly executed.

Monaco GP: Norris Triumphs In The Principality
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Isack Hadjar of France driving the (6) Visa Cash App Racing Bulls VCARB 02 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Glenn Dunbar/LAT Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202505250595 // Usage for editorial use only //

Williams Reaps Rewards for Tactical Play

Williams also benefited from strategic racing, with both cars finishing in the points, Alex Albon in P9 and Carlos Sainz in P10. In a move reminiscent of Racing Bulls, the team slowed the midfield train to manage tire life and track position. Mercedes was caught in this traffic jam, prompting an in-race apology text from Williams Team Principal James Vowles to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

The double points finish marked the team’s best Monaco result since 2005, a testament to the FW46’s growing consistency.

Mercedes Leave The Track Frustrated

Both the Mercedes Boys were involved in the Williams Train after a disappointing qualifying. In a hilarious event, George Russell overtook Alex Albon off track in the Nouvel Chicane. After sitting frustratedly behind a slow Williams for 70 laps, he received a Drive Through Penalty for the violation, and then, after the race, received a second Drive Through Penalty, which was added to his race time.

Antonelli had a similar scrappy weekend; a disappointing qualifying meant he was on the back foot. On Lap 1, he was embarrassingly done around the Hairpin section by the Sauber of Bortoleto, however, an attempt to overtake and regain his position ended badly for the Sauber after he was put into the wall.



Race Results

Standings

F1 Heads To Éspana: Spanish Grand Prix

Formula 1 now heads to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the final leg of the triple-header. With its mix of high-speed corners and technical sectors, the Spanish Grand Prix promises to be another stern test for both driver and machine.

Norris rides the momentum of a breakthrough win, while teammate Piastri will be eager to reassert his authority in the title fight. Don’t miss what’s shaping up to be a thrilling European summer.

Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X/, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

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Formula 1

Monaco Grand Prix: Formula One’s Crown Jewel

Formula 1 makes it’s stop at Monaco for the second race of the intense triple header.

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Formula 1 cars at Monaco
Credits: F1

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most iconic and prestigious races in Formula 1. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Monte Carlo’s harbour and steep hillsides, this street circuit offers a thrilling blend of glamour, history, and high-stakes racing. The tight, twisty layout makes every lap a challenge, demanding absolute precision and focus from the drivers. With limited opportunities to overtake and no margin for error, success in Monaco isn’t just about speed, it’s about control, timing, and staying off the walls.

About The Track

The Circuit de Monaco is widely regarded as one of the most difficult tracks in Formula 1. It’s narrow, full of sharp corners, and features constant elevation changes. With virtually no long straights, it offers few chances for overtaking, making qualifying performance especially critical.

Drivers must navigate legendary sections like the Fairmont Hairpin, which is the tightest corner on the F1 calendar, the tunnel, and the high-speed Swimming Pool chicane. The track’s bumpy surface and unforgiving barriers leave no room for mistakes, testing the limits of both car and driver from start to finish.

Monaco Grand Prix: Formula One's Crown Jewel

(Credit – f1.com)

Pirelli’s Specifications


For a second consecutive race, Pirelli has selected the three softest compounds from the 2025 range. As in Imola last week, the C4 will be the Hard, the C5 the Medium and the C6 the Soft, with the first two being the mandatory compounds for the race.

This weekend will see an important change to the regulations, specifically for this event only. During the race, two pit stops will be mandatory.

The aim of the FIA and F1 is to inject more excitement into a race that has often been very linear and predictable, as was very much the case last year.

Stories This Weekend

Monaco Curse

Charles Leclerc broke his home race curse by finally winning in Monaco last year, but it’s been a rocky road. From crashes in qualifying to mechanical failures on race day, the streets of Monte Carlo have not been kind to the Monegasque driver in the past.

Although Ferrari’s current performance doesn’t seem to match the pace of McLaren or Red Bull, Leclerc will be aiming to make the most of his local knowledge and qualifying prowess to put himself in a strong position.

In honour of its 75-year partnership with Shell, Ferrari has also made subtle livery changes this weekend.

Max As A Title Contender

Fresh off a commanding win in Imola, Max Verstappen is back in the title hunt. The reigning champion has been steadily chipping away at McLaren’s lead in the standings. A strong qualifying performance in Monaco, ideally a front-row start, will be key to maximising his chances on Sunday.

While Verstappen skipped a private screening of the upcoming F1 Movie to focus on sim racing, his focus remains firmly on the track.


McLaren Special Livery

McLaren enters the Monaco weekend in strong form and will run a special livery, albeit with only slight changes to their signature papaya and black colour scheme. The team is targeting a front-row lockout in qualifying and looks poised to continue its run of strong performances.

F1 Movie Screening

A unique highlight ahead of the race weekend was a private screening of the upcoming F1 Movie starring Brad Pitt and produced by Lewis Hamilton. The film is expected to boost global interest in Formula 1. Most of the grid was in attendance, except for Verstappen, who chose to stay home for sim racing.

Weekend Schedule

Weather Forecast

Friday: 23°C, Wind 13 km/h, 5% chance of rain
Saturday: 21°C, Wind 11 km/h, 25% chance of rain
Sunday: 23°C, Wind 11 km/h, 17% chance of rain.

The weather looks stable for the most part, allowing teams to collect consistent data throughout the sessions. If a surprise rain shower hits during qualifying or the race, it could shake up the grid in a big way.


Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/XInstagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

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