Top three verdict: Emotional Leclerc battles tears as Sainz sends warning to F1 rivals

Charles Leclerc finally achieved his first victory in Monaco, whilst Carlos Sainz issued a warning to Ferrari's Formula 1 rivals.

Once again track position proved key in Monaco, with the top three from Saturday celebrating on the podium after the grand prix.

READ MORE: Red Bull DISASTER diminishes championship lead

However, it was far from straight forward for Sainz, whose race could have been over after lap one, but a red flag and a race restart offered him a lifeline.

Behind them, the Red Bull of Sergio Perez was involved in a terrifying collision with both Haas drivers, destroying their cars and ending their weekend early.

The second race start was less than eventful, with all drivers' getting away cleanly, and a procession around the principality ensued.

Here is what the top three had to say following the Monaco Grand Prix...

Charles Leclerc

"No words can explain that. It's such a difficult race, I think the fact twice I've been starting on pole position and we couldn't quite make it makes it even better in a way.

"It means a lot, obviously. It's the race which made me dream of becoming a Formula 1 driver one day.

"Fifteen laps to the end you're hoping nothing happens and the emotions are coming.

"My dad has given everything for me to be here and it was a dream of ours for me to race here and win here, so it's unbelievable."

READ MORE: Red Bull F1 car destroyed in BRUTAL multi-car smash

Oscar Piastri

"Tricky race. The pace at the beginning was incredibly slow. I had one little half look before the tunnel but didn't have a small enough car to fit into the gap!

"Thanks to the team. It's been a great weekend all-round. Nice to put a result on the board. I've been strong the last few weekends but didn't have the result to show for it. Nice to have a podium.

"Charles has been mega all weekend. They have been quick from the very first lap.

"I'm happy with P2. A good result for the team. Very, very happy."

Carlos Sainz

"It was a tight one and a very bad feeling in lap one which very quickly turned into a really good feeling after getting reinstated in P3.

"From thereon really, the race pace was good as we expect, it's just impossible to get past on the streets of Monaco.

"But I'm incredibly happy to see Charles win on his home Grand Prix.

"To be able to share this podium with him in P3 is great for the whole team, and it feels like we're getting stronger and stronger."

READ MORE: FIA announce Monaco penalty verdict for Ferrari star

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Max Verstappen Nurburgring Results: NLS2 Race times and positions

• 3 hours ago

'Love in the air?': F1 insider reveals reason for Lewis Hamilton resurgence

• Yesterday 20:52

Max Verstappen Nurburgring LIVE: NLS2 schedule, times and free live streams

• Yesterday 12:56

Max Verstappen told to speak to F1 rivals after causing storm over new 2026 rules

• Yesterday 08:14

Ferrari boss clarifies team orders after Lewis Hamilton vs Charles Leclerc fight

• March 17, 2026 09:54

Max Verstappen ally claims bad Red Bull start has triggered F1 champion's fury

• March 19, 2026 22:55