F1: Coulthard believes Monaco pole-sitter could be ‘disappointed' with mandatory two-stop
The Monaco Grand Prix, one of the oldest tracks in Formula One history, is known for its luxurious charm and pristine views, and is a challenge like no other for the F1 drivers.
The slowest race on the calendar, which weaves through the streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamine around the harbour of the Principality of Monaco, is a high-stakes event with no room for error.
In a bid to enliven the otherwise straightforward Grand Prix in which teams usually make only one pit stop, a two-stop rule has been imposed by FIA, with the use of three tyre sets now compulsory.
Former F1 driver David Coulthard, who has claimed victory at this street circuit twice before (2000, 2002), feels that this change will make Saturday's qualifying an interesting affair, but the fastest driver on the grid will not be the favourite for the win.
'If I'm the guy who sticks it on pole, I would be disappointed for the first time this year,' said Coulthard, who spent 15 seasons (1994-2008) in the sport with Williams, McLaren and Red Bull.
The nature of the street circuit is such that drivers have to ace every corner to have a clean, incident-free lap, let alone looking to make a move on the car ahead. 'Overtaking is difficult,' said the 54-year-old.
ALSO READ | Pitstop change could make Monaco a crazy race, says Verstappen
'If it's a classic one-stop race, you take the lead and you manage your tyres until you're getting close to your pit stop,' he said, detailing how his two triumphant stints at this circuit saw him execute tyre management perfectly and weave to the checkered flag.
Now with an irrefutable two-stop race for Sunday, Coulthard believes there's a lot more scope for a happening race. 'They brought in mandatory two stops because it means there are two opportunities for people to undercut you or have a better pitstop.'
As strategy takes centre stage, Coulthard thinks a front-row start gives the best chance of winning, and sees McLaren as the team best placed to capitalise.
The reigning world constructors' champion rides on the confidence of a strong start to the season and the fact that it is the most successful team in Monaco, with 15 wins since 1966. The last win, however, was in 2008 with Lewis Hamilton.
'They have two great drivers,' – McLaren boasts a young and bustling lineup featuring championship leader Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who sits close behind.
'I think they're in a strong position, and they've got to believe they have the chance to qualify on the front row. If you do that, you've got the chance to win the race,' he said.
(Formula 1 will be broadcast LIVE on FanCode in India)
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