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F1 LIVE | Monaco Grand Prix - FP2
The weekend has started, and as usual, it's time for the second free practice session in Monaco on Thursday. The moment of the day when we can best assess who has the best chances for the most important session of the weekend, namely Saturday's qualifying.
Liveblog - FP2
Everything on qualifying in Monaco
Monaco is a unique circuit on the Formula 1 calendar, where driver confidence is paramount. The most important session is held here on Saturday when you really need to have confidence in your car. In practice, you push the limit, but if you go over the limit your confidence could be shattered.
During the second free practice, drivers drive under exactly the same conditions as during qualifying, so this is the moment for the teams to practice the short runs. In Monaco, qualifying is more important than anywhere else, because overtaking is almost impossible in the streets of Monte Carlo. You can't afford to make a mistake in qualifying.
Because Monaco is unlike any other track, it is difficult to say which team is the favourite prior to this weekend. Lewis Hamilton has been strong in qualifying again this year, but Max Verstappen was close on Saturday in his RB16B. Will the narrow lanes be good for Mercedes or Red Bull? We will see during this practice session.
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Midfield
In the early stages of the season, it looked as if McLaren had the advantage in the constructors battle for third. However, Ferrari have hit back strong and are expected to have a good weekend in Monaco with the circuit perhaps suiting their car more than others. Alpine have improved well over the last two Grands Prix and might start to get their names in the mix. And AlphaTauri probably haven't scored as many points as they should've.
