Very impressive lap by Jarno. in spite of being slower than Michael in the first sector -this is indicative of a less powerful engine than the Ferrari as the uphill section after St Devot, (the first corner) needs that extra power to motor up.
Second and third sectors, full of demanding corners the Renault chassis responded very well to Jarno's guidance, incredible precision coming out of the tunnel on a bright day, (from a dark and blind tunnel), placing his Renault on the right spot for the chicane bouncing off the curbs without major disturbance to the chassis, suspension doing what it is supposed to do.
Takuma Sato could have been second fastest, and possibly taken the pole from Jarno, except that on the approeach to the chicane, he put the wheels on the curb, throwing the car off balance under braking.
Sato incredibly, was able to control the car, taking it through the chicane, (sideways for a brief instant before the turns -left-right), demonstrating lighting reflexes, however, the mistake cost him to qualify all te way down to 7th. (Ralf Schumacher's ridiculous penalty notwithstanding)
This is the spot where last year Jenson Button crashed and prevented him form racing on that weekend as he had a concussion...
This year that accident was not a factor whatsoever, as Jenson split the Renaults and took the front row away from Fernando Alonso who qualified third putting Michael Schumacher on fourth spot. that is second row... I suppose his chances of a sixth consecutive victory hanging by a thread, but one never knows... The weather might be a factor and the treacherous first time around St. Devot cannot be discounted.
Jarno has a golden opportunity to win his maiden GP, at Monaco, no less... so far, Reault has proven to be the fastest overall pit stop crew, so he should be in a good position to win.
Improved performances by McLaren drivers Raikkonen and Coulthard qualifying 5th and 8th respectively.
A big error by last year's winner, Montoya around Rascasse placed him all the way down to ninth spot.
Rubens Barrichello managed 6th spot, (possibly carrying a heavier fuel load.)
This sets up a very interesting start for tomorrow, with Trulli and Button as front row, with Alonso looming in thrid spot all fast drivers who will give Michael absolutely no advantage for the start...
as usual... the proverbial first corner, (St Devot) needs to be watch carefully by all drivers, particularly these four as they funnel through it...
I believe (finally), we will see a different winner, and it is possible that Ferrari will not make the podium... but it is too early to tell, particularly if the weather plays a part... |
