Monaco Grand Prix 2026 Driver Ratings: Antonelli Rules the Principality in a Historic Triumph

Antonelli conquers Monaco and announces himself as Formula 1’s new king

Some victories are worth 25 points. Others become part of Formula 1 history. Kimi Antonelli’s victory at the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix belongs firmly in the second category.

On the most prestigious and demanding circuit on the calendar, the young Mercedes driver delivered a flawless performance, controlling the weekend from start to finish and securing one of the most significant victories of his rapidly growing career. Pole position, race victory, fastest lap and complete control of the race pace highlighted a weekend that confirmed Antonelli as the man to beat in the 2026 championship battle.

In a race disrupted by Safety Cars, incidents and a lengthy red-flag stoppage, the Italian never looked unsettled. Every restart was handled with the composure of a veteran, while his pace remained untouchable whenever the track went green.

Behind him, Lewis Hamilton secured a valuable second place for Ferrari, while Isack Hadjar continued his impressive rise by claiming a memorable podium finish in the streets of Monte Carlo.

Ferrari leaves Monaco with mixed emotions

The Scuderia departs the Principality with conflicting feelings. On one side of the garage, Hamilton delivered a masterclass in race management to secure Ferrari’s best possible result. On the other, Charles Leclerc once again experienced heartbreak at his home Grand Prix.

Hamilton maximises Ferrari’s potential

The seven-time world champion demonstrated exactly why Ferrari fought so hard to bring him to Maranello. While he lacked the outright pace to challenge Antonelli and Mercedes, Hamilton executed a perfect race, avoiding trouble and capitalising on every opportunity that came his way.

The result represents another important podium finish for Ferrari and provides valuable points in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.

Home disappointment for Leclerc

For Charles Leclerc, Monaco continues to be a race of frustration rather than celebration. After showing promising pace throughout the weekend, his hopes of fighting for victory disappeared following the incident that ultimately led to the race suspension.

The disappointment was visible as another opportunity slipped away on the circuit where every Monegasque driver dreams of standing on the top step of the podium.

Verstappen and Norris suffer costly setbacks

While Antonelli strengthened his championship lead, two of his main rivals endured disastrous afternoons.

Early retirement for Verstappen

Max Verstappen’s race lasted only moments before a technical issue forced the reigning world champion into retirement. It was a major blow for the Dutchman, who now faces an even greater challenge in his pursuit of the championship.

Norris leaves empty-handed

Lando Norris also suffered a painful setback after a mechanical problem ended his race prematurely. With Antonelli continuing his remarkable winning streak, every lost point could prove crucial as the season progresses.

Monaco Grand Prix 2026 Driver Ratings

Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 10

Perfection. Pole position, victory, fastest lap and complete control from lights to flag. This was the performance of a future world champion and perhaps the day Formula 1 witnessed the arrival of its next superstar.

Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – 9

Outstanding race management and flawless execution. He extracted everything possible from the Ferrari package and secured a deserved second place.

Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) – 8.5

The surprise of the weekend. Fast in qualifying, composed in the race and fully deserving of a place on the podium.

Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 8

A clean and intelligent drive. He stayed out of trouble and delivered valuable points for McLaren.

Pierre Gasly (Alpine) – 7.5

Another strong performance that highlights Alpine’s recent progress. Monaco suited his driving style perfectly.

Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) – 7

Experience remains one of Formula 1’s most valuable assets. Alonso once again extracted more from the car than many believed possible.

George Russell (Mercedes) – 5

A difficult weekend overshadowed by his teammate’s brilliance. He never looked capable of matching Antonelli’s pace.

Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 4

A painful afternoon at home. The potential was there, but the final result will only be remembered as another missed opportunity in Monaco.

Lando Norris (McLaren) – 4

A frustrating race that never truly came together before technical issues ended his hopes of scoring points.

Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – No Rating

Retired before the race could properly begin. Impossible to assess his performance.

Antonelli sends a powerful championship message

More impressive than the victory itself was the manner in which Antonelli achieved it. Monaco has exposed many great drivers throughout Formula 1 history, but the Italian approached the challenge with remarkable confidence and maturity.

The Principality has often served as the stage where future champions announce themselves to the world. After a dominant weekend on Formula 1’s most iconic circuit, Antonelli has done exactly that.

The 2026 World Championship is far from over, but one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the road to the title now runs through the young Italian wearing number 12 for Mercedes.