Formula 1's new 2026 regulations have drastically reshaped the Monaco Grand Prix's qualifying landscape, producing the slowest pole position time since 2017. Andrea Kimi Antonelli's pole-winning lap of 1'12.051 was over two seconds slower than Lando Norris's 2025 record, validating Norris's prediction that his benchmark would stand for years.
Team adaptation to the new rules varies wildly. McLaren is struggling the most, lapping over two-and-a-half seconds slower than last year. Mercedes, conversely, has fared significantly better, just half a second off their 2025 pace. Red Bull also saw a major drop, with Max Verstappen nearly one-and-a-half seconds slower than his 2025 best, though still close to Antonelli's pole. This early look suggests the new regulations could shake up the established pecking order, making for an unpredictable championship fight.
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