What happened: F1 announced that first practice is underway in Monaco, opening the on-track portion of the Monaco Grand Prix weekend. The session starts a Friday program that continues with FP2 before Saturday qualifying and Sunday's race.
Why it matters: Monaco practice carries extra weight because track position and driver confidence are central to the weekend. Early running gives teams their first read on grip, traffic and setup on the street circuit before qualifying sets the race shape.
By the numbers: The 2026 Monaco Grand Prix runs June 5-7 as Round 6 of the F1 season. Sunday's race is scheduled for 78 laps around the 3.337-kilometer Circuit de Monaco.
What to watch: Watch for FP1 pace, wall contact and traffic management as the track rubbers in. FP2 will offer a clearer signal before Saturday qualifying.