Will An Unlikely Team Steal The Spotlight at Monaco GP? Sergio Perez Thinks So

In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, surprises are cherished and often game-changing. This weekend's Monaco Grand Prix is setting the stage for one such thrilling possibility. Red Bull’s ace driver Sergio Perez has hinted that a team outside the big league could steal the spotlight and emerge as a serious contender.

The F1 grid has largely been dominated by the top five teams from last season. Yet, the narrow margins over a single qualifying lap have created a scenario where underdogs could turn the tables. At Monaco, the rulebook is often thrown out the window, and anything can happen.

The Unpredictable Monaco Factor

One doesn’t have to look far back to see proof of Monaco’s unpredictability. Take last year, for example: Esteban Ocon of Alpine, typically not a frontrunner, managed to convert a third-place qualifying position into a stunning podium finish. The tight, twisty layout of Monte Carlo levels the playing field, offering smaller teams a golden opportunity.

Perez himself had a rough outing last year, failing to make it into the points. However, based on his current predictions, we could see smaller teams using Monaco’s unique characteristics to their advantage once again.

“I think they will be in the mix, definitely. They [Ferrari and McLaren] will be very hard to beat,” Perez commented. “But at the same time, I do expect other teams to surprise, given how small the qualifying margins are. I’m sure some midfield teams will be able to put together a great lap and be in the mix as well.”

The Chase for Red Bull

Red Bull’s recent dominance has been challenged of late, particularly by Ferrari and McLaren. Since the introduction of ground-effect cars in 2022, the field has been closing up. McLaren, for instance, took a big step forward with their updated MCL38, leading Lando Norris to victory in Miami and almost another win at Imola.

Perez acknowledges the increasing pressure from these teams and is well aware of the need for upgrades to stay ahead. “I think they’re just closing up a lot and we have to make sure that we do the same, we get a good upgrade,” he admitted. Red Bull is biding their time, waiting for the opportune moment to roll out their performance enhancements.

“We haven’t put a massive upgrade on the car just yet, so they seem to be closing the gap. It’s great also; we all want to see how McLaren and Ferrari perform with a car capable of winning races. I think it’s something that will be fascinating to watch,” Perez added.

Winning in Monaco: The Strategy

Monaco is arguably the most tactical race in the F1 calendar. Minimal overtaking spots and the treacherously narrow streets mean that securing a front-row start in qualifying is almost synonymous with race success. Perez knows this better than anyone; his win in the rain-soaked Monaco 2022 race is a testament to strategic precision.

“I think I know pretty much it’s all down to Saturday,” he reflected. “If we’re not on the front row, or third, we don’t have a chance of winning the race. It’s important to be able to get in that first or second row at least.”

As the weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on Monaco to see if an unlikely hero can rewrite the script. Whether it’s a bold strategic move from McLaren or a dazzling qualifying lap from a midfield contender, expect the unexpected. Perez’s insights have set the stage for what could be one of the most thrilling Monaco GPs in recent years.

Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss it.