Toto Wolff, Mercedes-Benz F1 team principal, considers Monaco Grand Prix to be Red Bull and Ferrari’s playing field and doesn’t expect the podium this weekend.
Monaco – the slow and tight track – had been tough on Mercedes last year. The car might not be able to perform as expected this year as well.
Wolff said, “We don’t head to Monaco as favourites. They’re Red Bull and Ferrari.
“Red Bull are strong in slow corners and where straight-line speed is less important. Our job is to maximise the car’s potential, whatever that may be.”
Lewis Hamilton – former world champion for Mercedes – victory at Spain added 17 more points to his standings marking him ahead of his rival Ferrari’s driver, Sebastian Vettel.
British driver performance in Barcelona was unlike this year trend, where he had clear advantage. He was only able to mark victory in Baku when Vettel miscalculated and Bottas had to retire because of tyre.
Ferrari’s pace has been consistent in Bahrain, China and Azerbaijan, whereas Mercedes had clear advantage in Australia and Spain.
Wolff said: “Our first one-two of the season in Barcelona felt great. The car was quick, looked after its tyres and both drivers were positive about the balance and handling.
“But we’re not thinking about it as a turning point – the track layout, surface and conditions all suited our car and played into our hands.
“So we are staying cautious with our predictions as we head to Monaco.
“It’s a circuit that gives us completely different challenges – and unique ones, too.
“Last year, it became a weekend of damage limitation when we didn’t find the right set-up. It was a painful lesson from us and we are determined to show that we have learned it this year.”
Red Bull and Ferrari are expected to dominate the race at Monaco where Vettel had won last year and Ricciardo would have won in 2016 if the team had not mismanaged a pit stop for tyres.
Leading driver of this season also expects the same and is looking forward for a tough race among F1-Trio.
Hamilton said: “Monaco is going be a serious challenge. The others are going to be hard to beat.”
He particularly pointed out to Red Bulls performance around the last segment of the Barcelona track, which have considerable similar characteristics of Monaco.
He said, “[Red Bull’s] Daniel Ricciardo was much quicker in the final sector. That is all downforce. They are going to be rapid in Monaco.”
