Monaco Grand Prix 2026: Antonelli Favorite as Pérez Starts 18th
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The 2026 Monaco Grand Prix is set to take place, with Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli as the favorite.
- Antonelli secured his fourth pole position and is aiming for his fifth consecutive win to lead the drivers' championship.
- Sergio Pérez will start from 18th place after struggling in qualifying, expressing determination to do his best.
The 2026 Formula 1 season continues with the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, the sixth race of the calendar. All eyes are on Mercedes' young prodigy, Kimi Antonelli, who has emerged as the dominant force and the clear favorite for victory.
The 19-year-old Italian has showcased extraordinary form, securing his fourth career pole position. His dominant performance in qualifying places him in a prime spot on the notoriously difficult Monaco circuit, where starting position is crucial. Antonelli is chasing his fifth consecutive win of the 2026 season, aiming to solidify his lead in the drivers' standings.
In contrast, Sergio Pérez faced a challenging qualifying session. The Mexican driver narrowly missed advancing to Q2, leaving him to start the race from 18th on the grid. Despite the setback, Pérez remains determined. "Tomorrow we are going to try to give it our all, again," he stated after the session in Monte Carlo.
Pérez has a history of success at the Monaco Grand Prix, having won the historic race in 2022 while driving for Red Bull. That victory remains a significant memory for him and for Mexican motorsport.
The race is scheduled for 7:00 AM local time and will be broadcast on F1TV, Sky Sports, and Izzi Go.
Tomorrow we are going to try to give it our all, again.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.