Monaco Grand Prix: Charles Leclerc Ends Curse with Victory
Hometown hero Charles Leclerc finally broke his Monaco curse by winning a processional race that left Max Verstappen unimpressed. Leclerc’s victory not only marked his first win on home soil but also narrowed the championship gap to Verstappen to 31 points.
Race Highlights
- Leclerc secured his first victory in Monaco, holding off McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.
- Carlos Sainz, Leclerc’s Ferrari teammate, finished third, followed by Lando Norris in fourth.
- George Russell crossed the line in fifth for Mercedes, with Verstappen in sixth and Hamilton in seventh.
Leclerc expressed his emotions after the race, highlighting the significance of the win and dedicating it to his late father. The victory was a dream come true for Leclerc and a poignant moment for him and his family.
Eventful Start
The race began dramatically with Sergio Perez’s high-speed crash on the opening lap, resulting in a red flag. Despite the chaos, all drivers involved walked away unharmed.
Mid-Race Incidents
Midway through the race, Esteban Ocon’s risky move led to a collision with his teammate, Pierre Gasly, causing damage to both cars. Ocon received a penalty for the incident.
Monaco Track Challenges
Despite its glamour, the Monaco track’s narrow layout has faced criticism for its lack of overtaking opportunities. The race saw minimal position changes due to the track’s limitations.
Final Stages and Victory
As the race progressed, Leclerc maintained his lead, fending off Piastri until the checkered flag. The tight circuit made it difficult for Verstappen and others to make significant overtakes, resulting in a procession to the finish line.
Charles Leclerc’s victory in Monaco not only ended his curse at the prestigious circuit but also reignited the championship battle with Max Verstappen.