IT'S RACE WEEK: 5 storylines we're excited about ahead of the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix Chris Medland highlights the biggest talking points as F1 heads to Monaco for the sixth round of the 2026 season. The European season gets underway with one of the most recognisable races in motorsport, kicking off a run of six races in eight weeks. Kimi Antonelli’s commanding lead in the Drivers’ Championship is not the only talking point as the motorhomes make a return this weekend in Monte Carlo. It’s Monaco This is an entry that can absolutely make an annual appearance in this feature, because the Monaco Grand Prix remains one of the most iconic events on the sporting calendar. The setting is one thing, with the stunning backdrop of the Principality climbing up the hillside around the harbour, and the race track winding its way past iconic venues such as Casino Square and the Swimming Pool. With the Mediterranean Sea often shimmering away in the background, too, it’s a beautiful place for a race. And while the race itself can sometimes need an unexpected interruption to mix up the order, that puts a huge importance on Qualifying for one of the most crucial Saturday sessions of the season. An F1 car lapping Monaco even on its own in practice is a spectacular sight, but doing so when on the ragged edge during a qualifying lap is a level above, and a massive test of driver skill, bravery and concentration. The nature of the layout should also lend itself to this generation of car, with drivers having to handle the huge amount of torque in this year’s more nimble machinery, while also having plenty of energy at their disposal. Winning the Monaco Grand Prix is often listed as one of the top ambitions of