The Expectations I

The grand dame of Formula 1’s heritage tracks, Monaco is the sport’s showpiece; its yearly touchstone to the soul of Grand Prix racing and the crown jewel of the sport’s marketing engine.

More than any other venue on the season calendar, the key to success at Monaco is qualifying in the first row. Nine out of the last 11 drivers to capture the pole in Monaco have gone on to win the race. Little passing, a narrow line, Armco inches from the track and short straights, Monaco is both the track every F1 aficionado loves to hate and the tradition no one would ever replace.

A few driver’s had scores to settle or at least reputations to reaffirm. Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo, who felt he would have won in Spain, had his team’s strategy positioned him correctly rather than with his hands tied, looked to exploit the enormous traction and downforce advantages on slower to medium speed corners, aimed for the first row in Monte Carlo. The Mercedes Duo, Rosberg and Hamilton, were anxious to reestablish their hold on victories and above all, get through the first lap in one piece rather than in the guardrail. Ferrari looked to find the pace that they felt was near, but had abandoned them in Barcelona.