Categories: FeatureFeatures

Chris Medland's Monaco Grand Prix preview

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In any Formula One season, the Monaco Grand Prix is invariably a highlight for fans and drivers. Oft-repeated cliches such as the ‘jewel in the crown’ are used because it really is one of the most spectacular events of the year, and one which would never be approved if you attempted to pitch the idea today. Mercedes’ domination in 2014 didn’t prevent another dramatic and controversial weekend, while Daniel Ricciardo was even able to challenge Lewis Hamilton for second place as outright power played a less crucial role around the tight and twisting streets of Monte Carlo. Add in a threat of rain this year, and you can’t help but be excited.

FORM GUIDE

If anything, the Spanish Grand Prix was a disheartening one for fans hoping to see Mercedes threatened as the defending champions extended their advantage having been pushed hard by Ferrari at the previous three races. Ferrari remains confident it is more competitive than that race suggests, while Williams is also within striking difference of the Scuderia on the right circuit. McLaren’s revival continued in qualifying but the weekend ultimately ended in disappointment, while Red Bull continues to struggle and will need a dramatic turn of events for Daniel Ricciardo to be able to repeat his podium performance of 2014 in Monaco.

2014 RESULT

Pole position: Nico Rosberg (Mercedes), 1:15.989

Top three: Nico Rosberg (Mercedes), Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull)

Fastest lap: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull), 1:18.479

SESSION TIMES (All times local)

FP1: 10:00 - 11:30

FP2: 14:00 - 15:30

FP3: 11:00 - 12:00

Qualifying: 14:00 - 15:00

Race: 1400

TYRE CHOICES

WEATHER FORECAST

Many a Monaco classic has been the result of a sprinkling of rain, and the chances of a similar situation this weekend appear to be changing all the time. An early forecast of rain on all three days of running has been downgraded to likely showers during Thursday’s practice sessions, and while Saturday only has a slight threat of rain, its more likely that Sunday morning will be wet. Allied with cool temperatures, any early rain could cause some tricky conditions at the start of the race.

PODIUM PREDICTION

1st - Nico Rosberg

2nd - Sebastian Vettel

3rd - Kimi Raikkonen

2014 WINNING SHOT

Andrew Lewin

Andrew first became a fan of Formula 1 during the time when Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill were stepping into the limelight after the era of Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Aryton Senna. He's been addicted ever since, and has been writing about the sport now for nearly a quarter of a century for a number of online news sites. He's also written professionally about GP2 (now Formula 2), GP3, IndyCar, World Rally Championship, MotoGP and NASCAR. In his other professional life, Andrew is a freelance writer, social media consultant, web developer/programmer, and digital specialist in the fields of accessibility, usability, IA, online communities and public sector procurement. He worked for many years in magazine production at Bauer Media, and for over a decade he was part of the digital media team at the UK government's communications department. Born and raised in Essex, Andrew currently lives and works in south-west London.