Haas target Monaco Grand Prix rebound after difficult run of races
F1 NewsTuesday, 02 June 2026 at 10:00
Haas arrive in Monaco looking to bounce back from a challenging period as Team Principal Ayao Komatsu urged his squad to learn from recent setbacks and continue pushing for improvements in an increasingly competitive Formula 1 midfield battle.
The American team heads to Monte Carlo for the start of the European leg of the season following what Komatsu described as "a couple of difficult races" in May, with Haas determined to return to form on one of the sport's most demanding circuits.
Monaco remains one of Formula 1's most iconic venues, with qualifying expected to play a decisive role around the narrow street circuit where overtaking opportunities are extremely limited.
Komatsu said: "We're looking forward to heading to the iconic streets of Monte Carlo to kick-start the European F1 season. 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.
"Looking back, we had a couple of difficult races in May – but it's given us plenty to analyze 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," the Haas boss concluded.
Bearman eyes Monaco challenge
Ollie Bearman believes confidence will be critical around the tight confines of Monte Carlo as drivers search for every fraction of a second by brushing the barriers throughout qualifying and the race.
The Briton highlighted the unique technical demands of the circuit, where teams must maximise downforce while also dealing with the low-speed and bumpy nature of the track.
Bearman said: "The Monaco Grand Prix is 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.
"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," the Bearman.
The importance of qualifying has long been a defining feature of Monaco, with track position often proving more valuable than outright race pace.
Ocon relishing return to Monaco
Esteban Ocon also arrives at one of his favourite events on the calendar, with the Frenchman looking forward to racing in front of family and friends close to home.
Ocon, who has enjoyed memorable moments around the principality during his Formula 1 career, stressed the precision required to succeed around the famous street circuit.
Ocon said: "I'm looking forward to this weekend as Monaco is always one of the season's highlights for teams and drivers.
"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," the Frenchman concluded.
With the midfield battle remaining fiercely competitive, Haas will be hoping Monaco's unique challenge offers an opportunity to recover from a difficult run and return to the points as the European season gets underway.
Latest News
Loading
