2026 Monaco Grand Prix: Schedule, How to Watch, and Key Storylines

The Formula 1 circus arrives in Monaco this weekend for the 72nd running of the Monaco Grand Prix as a world championship event. Round 6 of the 2026 season takes place on the tight, unforgiving streets of Monte Carlo, where precision and concentration are paramount.

Why it matters:

Monaco is one of the crown jewels of F1, and this year's race carries extra significance. McLaren will become only the second team after Ferrari to reach 1,000 Grands Prix — fittingly at the same circuit where the team debuted in 1966. Meanwhile, championship leader Kimi Antonelli arrives on a four-race winning streak and could become the first Italian to win here since Jarno Trulli in 2004.

The details:

• McLaren's milestone: The team's first ever race was the 1966 Monaco GP. Lando Norris ended a 17-year win drought here last year, but McLaren has yet to win in 2026.
• Antonelli's charge: The Mercedes driver leads the drivers' standings with 131 points, four wins, and three poles. A fifth consecutive victory would extend his lead over teammate George Russell (88 pts) and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc (75 pts).
• Ferrari's hope: Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are desperate to end the Scuderia's winless run dating back to Mexico 2024. Leclerc won his home race in 2024, becoming the first Monegasque to do so since 1931.
• Schedule (local time): FP1 Friday 13:30, FP2 17:00; FP3 Saturday 12:30, Qualifying 16:00; Race Sunday 15:00 (78 laps).
• How to watch: In Australia, all sessions are live on Fox Sports 506 and Kayo Sports. In New Zealand, Sky Sport 1 and 3 cover the action. F1 TV is available via select providers.
• Weather: Sunny and warm, mid-20s Celsius, with some cloud on Saturday. Race day looks clear.

What's next:

With history, prestige, and championship momentum on the line, Monaco once again promises a defining weekend. The narrow streets leave little room for error, and any slip could reshape the title fight. All eyes will be on Antonelli, Leclerc, and a McLaren team seeking to celebrate its 1,000th GP in style.