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2006 Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix
Race Preview

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Monaco is hard to predict

In the last few races the fight was between Renault and Ferrari and Alonso and Michael in particular. In Monaco things may be different and we could have a surprise winner. Not that Alonso or Michael won't be able to fight for the win.  Monaco is unlike any other race, the track is the slowest on the calendar and isn't really suited for the modern Formula 1 car and given its characteristics, today's F1 cars are designed with Monaco in mind. That is why we could have a surprise car/driver package that does well in Monaco.

The Monaco street circuit (layout) is the slowest and shortest on the calendar but it is the one that requires 100% focus from the driver as the slightest error could mean the end of your race.
Maximum power and aerodynamics aren't as important here as on other circuits. Mechanical grip, good power delivery at lower revs and rear traction out of corners is what counts on this track. 
A good grid position and a good start is crucial on this track as overtaking is practically impossible. 
The tyres will be of the softest compound as the track isn't abrasive and tyre wear won't be high.
We usually get a high attrition rate at this track as mistakes usually mean crashing out!

The weather of course could play a major role at this event however current weather forecasts are predicting a mostly sunny weekend.

Most of the teams conducted testing at Paul Ricard on a track configuration that simulates the Monaco track. Renault were fastest but most of the teams were very close.

Teams and Drivers to watch:

Renault have been strong at all the tracks so far this season so they cannot be discounted. Alonso would have to be one of the favourites and Fisichella usually does well on this track so he won't be far behind.

Ferrari have been strong in the last few races. It depends whether their car has good mechanical grip. If it does, watch out for Michael. Massa won't be able to match Michael here.

McLaren could surprise many and win here. Both Raikkonen and Montoya won here in the past and either of them could repeat it although Raikkonen would have a better chance given Montoya's recent form (particularly in the error department).

Honda could also deliver here but that is a low possibility. If they have the car, Button could deliver their 1st win. Barrichello still appears to be struggling with the car.

BMW Sauber could be strong but are unlikely to win. Both Heidfeld and Villeneuve do well on this track.

Williams were strong here last year and finished 1-2, Webber may have a chance as well. Don't discount Rosberg either.

Toyota have a new car and Trulli have won here in the past so they have an outside chance.

Red Bull don't usually do well in Monaco, they just come up with some theme to entertain their guests!

Toro Rosso and MF1 Racing will have the best chance of scoring a point or two. The high attrition rate may help!

Qualifying will be very tense particularly in the 2 knockout sessions and expect a few of the top drivers to be knocked out early.

And lets hope the Super Aguri cars stay out of the way.

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