Monaco Grand Prix – Race: Lando Norris wins, strategy reigns supreme in the Principality

The fright at the first corner. Charles Leclerc, author of a very good start, could have overtaken Lando Norris. But the Briton managed the situation perfectly with the Ferrari, even if it meant locking his wheels. A little further, Gabriel Bortoleto got caught at the Portier. The Brazilian was surprised by Kimi Antonelli, who was trying to overtake him.

The Sauber hit the tire wall just before the tunnel. A virtual safety car was deployed. This benefited several drivers who were able to go through the pits to make the first of the two mandatory stops for this Monaco Grand Prix.

Pierre Gasly was the first driver to retire. The Frenchman, who had taken advantage of the virtual safety car to implement an alternate strategy, lost everything. Victim of a brake issue, he collided with the rear of Yuki Tsunoda’s car at the new chicane. The left front suspension of the Alpine was completely destroyed. Debris was left on the track. Surprisingly, only a yellow flag was waved.

Bold strategy of Racing Bulls

By holding up the pack, Liam Lawson allowed his team to implement a strategy favorable to Isack Hadjar, who was able to make a free pit stop. Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon were also able to benefit.

On the 19th lap, Lando Norris went through the pits, handing the lead to Charles Leclerc. Immediately after, Isack Hadjar was able to go through the pits again to switch to hard tires. At that point in the race, Racing Bulls’ strategy was perfect.

Carlos Sainz copied Racing Bulls’ strategy. George Russell, vigilant, had a front-row seat to witness this scene. This benefited Alexander Albon, who was able to take advantage of a free pit stop.

Williams copies Racing Bulls

Fernando Alonso threw in the towel on the 38th lap due to a mechanical problem. The Spaniard was able to park his Aston Martin in the safety lanes, and the situation did not cause a safety car.

After implementing a strategy for Alexander Albon, Williams used the Thai driver so that the Spaniard could also benefit from a free second pit stop. George Russell, exasperated from being stuck behind a very slow Alexander Albon, cut the port chicane to overtake him. As a result, he was penalized with a drive-through. Kimi Antonelli did the same before pulling back.

General regrouping at the front of the race in the final laps. Max Verstappen waited until the end to make his second pit stop. But the red flag, which could have benefited him, never came. Charles Leclerc, although faster than Lando Norris, couldn’t get past the McLaren.