F1 LIVE | FP1 for the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix

This is the GPBlog liveblog for the first free practice session ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix. F1 teams and drivers will take to the track in the principality for the first time this year. Most of the attention will be on Lewis Hamilton and George Russell as Mercedes introduce significant upgrades. Red Bull Racing are trying to win for the sixth consecutive time, though Aston Martin, Ferrari and Mercedes are expected to be closer. 

F1 LIVE | FP1 for the Monaco Grand Prix

Preparations for the Monaco GP will revolve around a single fast lap more than at other circuits. Qualifying in Monaco is particularly important. Overtaking on the narrow streets of Monte Carlo is particularly difficult. The driver who starts at the front determines the race pace.

Red Bull not clear favourites for the first time in 2023

As a result, it is also a weekend where Red Bull are not necessarily the favourites. Obviously, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez are not ruled out for a win, but other teams like Ferrari, Aston Martin and Mercedes also stand a chance in Monaco. Ferrari are especially dangerous for Red Bull, as the Ferrari is very good at getting the tyres warm for one fast lap. Aston Martin are particularly fast in sections featuring slow-speed corners. The higher wear associated with that plays almost no significant role in Monaco.

With more chances of victory for the rival teams, the fight between the two championship leaders is still exciting. Perez who has emerged as the street king, could potentially put up an equal fight with two-time F1 champion Verstappen at the Monaco circuit.

Rain doesn't seem likely for Friday. That also seems to be the case for Saturday, but there is a chance of rain and thunderstorms on Sunday. That could mean that practice sessions will be even more focused on qualifying preparations on a dry track. There will be no practice for Sunday's possibly wet track surface.