Saturday: Rosberg and Hamilton lock out the front row for Mercedes
Mercedes is in a good position for a fifth consecutive one-two finish. However, the pressure between the two star drivers is intensifying following an error by Rosberg that deprived Hamilton of a potential pole position.
Nico Rosberg (No. 6) – 3rd and Pole Position
The local contender expresses satisfaction with the work done by him and his team, he states: « I felt really good in the car throughout the weekend and it’s fantastic to secure pole again here in Monaco. The team did a superb job once more this weekend because our performance is so strong even on this unique circuit – which shows that we have developed a really strong chassis and engine package for this season. »
He talks about the end of his qualification: « I had an excellent lap at the beginning of Q3 but Lewis was very close. When I tried again, pushing a bit more, unfortunately, it was a bit too much at the limit. I locked the rear and then the front off the line on the bumpy downhill part of the track before turn 5, but I just managed to take the escape road. I apologized to Lewis for hindering his opportunity to improve his time. »
He is counting on a good start and a good strategy to win the race.
Lewis Hamilton (#44) – 1st and 2nd
The Englishman feels he was having a good weekend, but Q3 didn’t end as he expected: « The qualification was going well today, but in hindsight, I should have done my best lap before the end of Q3. It’s Monaco and there’s always a risk of a yellow flag here. Of course, I’m extremely disappointed not to have been able to finish my lap since I was two-tenths ahead. That’s motorsport. »
He will try to make up for his misfortune by getting off to a good start on Sunday.
