Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in the first free practice session for the Monaco Grand Prix. The Ferrari driver completed his best lap in 1:13.978, immediately confirming the Scuderia's strong performance on the Monegasque circuit. Lewis Hamilton completed the Ferrari one-two, finishing second, close behind his teammate. The two red cars occupied the top two positions at the end of the first hour of running.
Verstappen slots in ahead of the Mercedes
Behind the Ferraris, Max Verstappen took third place in his Red Bull. The Dutchman finished ahead of the Mercedes, who had been well-positioned during the session and clearly on pace on this street circuit. The results of these free practice sessions confirm Ferrari's competitiveness in Monaco, where engine power matters less than traction, braking precision, and confidence in slow corners.
Hadjar raises a red flag
The session was interrupted after Isack Hadjar went off the track. The driver crashed heavily into the wall, bringing out the red flag. The accident disrupted the first practice session and cost the teams valuable track time, in a session already crucial for getting to grips with a circuit as demanding as Monaco.
Leclerc launches its home weekend
For Charles Leclerc, this fastest time provides an ideal start in front of his home crowd. Ferrari has put both its cars at the front, Verstappen remains close behind, and the Mercedes haven't fallen behind. The rest of the weekend will have to confirm whether this initial dominance can translate into pole position, and then victory…
