‘Season highlight’: Haas drivers Bearman and Ocon look ahead to ‘unparalleled’ Monaco Grand Prix

In Europe for the first time this season, Haas take on arguably the most challenging circuit on the calendar due to its pinching street corners and confining walls.

For the drivers, succeeding around the streets of Monte Carlo requires sheer bravery and millimetric precision, with a single error often resulting in shunts into the metal or concrete.

It’s also a circuit which can make or break a season, especially in the midfield where even a handful of points can make the world of difference.

For Haas, currently seventh in the constructors’ standings and within 16 points of both Racing Bulls and Alpine, a strong result in Monaco would make a significant difference.

“Monaco’s simply a place like no other on the calendar, different in equal measure for the challenge on-track and the atmosphere off it,” said Haas’ team principal, Ayao Komatsu.

“Looking back, we had a couple of difficult races in May – but it’s given us plenty to analyse and improve on, both technically and operationally, and we take that and look ahead eager to get back racing on a regular basis now.

“The development technically is fierce and we’ve got to be at our very best to compete. As ever, we remain focused and committed to make improvements continuously by working together as a team.”

Oliver Bearman, who has claimed 18 of Haas’ 19 points so far this season, made his Monaco bow last year and is looking forward to building his experience at this iconic track.

“It’s a challenge for both drivers and teams, as you have to navigate setting up the car for the low-speed, bumpy circuit, while trying to get the most downforce in the car as you possibly can,” Bearman said.

“Like Montreal, it’s another circuit where you need to have confidence and get as close to the walls as you can, to get every last bit out of the lap.

“Qualifying dictates a lot more here in Monaco than it does at other races, but honestly, that’s part of the unique challenge of this weekend, it’s unparalleled.”

Bearman’s French teammate Esteban Ocon finished on the podium in 2023 while with Alpine and he has competed in seven Monaco grands prix throughout his career.

Given how close the Principality is to France and that Circuit Paul Ricard is no longer on the calendar, it’s as close to a home race as Ocon will get.

“I’m looking forward to this weekend as Monaco is always one of the season’s highlights for teams and drivers,” Ocon added.

“Personally, I’ve got some great memories there and it’s great to race so close to France as well, with friends and family coming to the track to support every year.

“Racing on the historic streets of Monaco is truly special and something every driver grows up wanting to do.

“The background is unique, the circuit demands total precision, and the confidence to get close to the walls is what really makes the difference.

“As a team we’ll work hard to build up through the weekend for the all-important qualifying on Saturday and hope to have a good race on Sunday.”