Monaco GP – THE POINT… by Gian Carlo Minardi

The sixth Grand Prix of Formula 1 is over, with another double scored by Mercedes. However, the real leitmotif of the weekend has been the debacle of the Renault engines, which have experienced several breaks. On this specific side, Red Bull is unable to free itself from next season’s contract for the supply of engines: this could open new scenarios, both regarding technicians and pilots. Adrian Newey might opt for a sabbatical year, waiting to return to the Circus in 2016 with other colours. This rumor could also lead other constructors, interested in providing their Power-Unit to strong technical partners, to change their “return-to-F1” plans – BMW in first place.

By the way, congratulations to Nico Rosberg, who repeated the success of last season, proving to have something more than Hamilton on this track; the team-mate finished in second place, allowing Mercedes to score the fifth double out of six races. Leaving aside controversies, with this victory Nico proved that he deserved the pole-position, being the only one driver to break the wall of 1’16’’.

As we said, it was a race characterized by many retirements, with only four cars at full speed (Rosberg, Hamilton, Riccardo and Alonso). A praise must go to Marussia, which – despite the difficulties – achieved with Bianchi the ninth place and two World Championship points. Two points that will be vital for the continuation of this adventure: as a former Team Principal of a small team, I know very well the significance of such a result.

Very good job for Red Bull too, a team constantly growing. Daniel Ricciardo scored his second consecutive podium and is the only driver to keep up the morale at Renault’s, with a great pace. Despite a Power-Unit with 80-90 hp less, he was able to fight on an even footing with a Mercedes.

A small praise goes to Ferrari, once again bringing both cars to the finish line. The result of Fernando Alonso highlights once more the problems at Ferrari’s. Too bad for Kimi Raikkonen: after a weekend troubled by physical problems, he was the author of a great start and of a good performance, messed-up only by race contacts. Unfortunately, in a track like Monte Carlo you have to put them into account.