Formula 1 fully entered the mood of the Monaco GP this Wednesday, with Ferrari emerging as one of the main protagonists even before the cars hit the track. Charles Leclerc renewed his multi-year contract with the Italian team, while rivals began to point to the Maranello team as favorites for the pole position battle on the streets of Monte Carlo.
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Ferrari’s favoritism gained strength after statements from Lando Norris and McLaren boss Andrea Stella. Both highlighted the characteristics of the SF-26, especially its performance in corners, as an important differential for a circuit where straight-line speed has reduced impact. Leclerc himself, however, sought to minimize expectations around the team for the weekend.
Another topic that stirred the backstage was the future of the driver market. An analysis of the Ferrari scenario indicated that Lewis Hamilton’s contract could directly influence possible moves involving Max Verstappen in the coming years, reinforcing how decisions in Maranello continue to resonate throughout the paddock.
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Cadillac was also in the spotlight before the sixth round of the season. The team confirmed the arrival of a new update package for the Monaco GP, in an attempt to reduce the gap to competitors and gain competitiveness in the European phase of the championship.
On the Brazilian side, Gabriel Bortoleto drew attention by commenting on the frequent comparisons with Ayrton Senna. The Audi driver treated the subject with respect but highlighted the importance of building his own path in Formula 1. A resident of Monaco, Bortoleto will race practically at home this weekend and arrives at the Principality surrounded by expectation after recent demonstrations of the German team’s evolution.
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