Ferrari's 'Golden Chance' in Monaco: Palmer Predicts First Win of 2026

Jolyon Palmer believes Ferrari has a "golden chance" to win the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, with the SF-26's strengths aligning perfectly with the Principality's tight, twisty layout. The former Renault driver tips Charles Leclerc as the man to deliver the Scuderia's first victory of the 2026 season.

Why it matters:

Ferrari have been consistent front-runners across the opening five rounds, collecting four podiums and sitting second in the constructors' standings, but a maiden win has remained elusive. Power unit limitations have proved costly on power-sensitive circuits. Monaco offers a rare chance to turn promise into a victory before the calendar shifts back to less favorable tracks.

The details:

• Car characteristics: The SF-26 has excelled in mechanical balance, minimum cornering speeds, and launch performance since pre-season testing. Its weakness on long straights is irrelevant in Monaco, which lacks any significant straight.
• Technical edge: Ferrari's smaller turbocharger reduces lag and improves throttle response out of slow corners — a critical advantage on a circuit defined by constant acceleration and braking. The innovative exhaust-blown winglet provides extra rear downforce with minimal drag, aiding grip in low-speed sections.
• Palmer's assessment: "The Ferrari car is not only a brilliant chassis, but it's great off the line. However, the power unit is their weakness — but Ferrari has a golden chance to win in Monaco because of the way their car is."
• Leclerc factor: Palmer calls the Monegasque driver a "Monaco specialist" and puts his money on Leclerc to convert the opportunity, citing his home race motivation and track record.

What's next:

Monaco is not a one-off opportunity for Ferrari. Palmer notes that twistier circuits later in the season — Zandvoort, Budapest (where Leclerc was on pole last year), and others — will also play to the SF-26's strengths. "I think these early races have probably been a bad mix for Ferrari because there've been a lot of power-sensitive circuits," he said. The Scuderia will need to capitalize in Monaco to build momentum for the rounds ahead.