How Mercedes' rivals hopes imploded in Monaco

At the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, all three of Mercedes' main rivals failed to challenge championship leader Kimi Antonelli, who won the race. Max Verstappen was eliminated on the formation lap due to a Red Bull engine problem, Lewis Hamilton was beaten by Antonelli after Ferrari failed to convert strong practice form in qualifying, and Charles Leclerc crashed out late in the race. McLaren dropped to fourth-best throughout the weekend, leaving Antonelli to extend his championship lead while Mercedes teammate George Russell endured a difficult race finishing sixth.