Haug: Drivers make the difference in Monaco

Norbert Haug believes Mercedes stands a strong chance of a good result in Monte Carlo next weekend, not least due to Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg’s experience around the compact street circuit. The company is currently fifth in the Constructors’ Championship.

“In Monaco, more than any other circuit, the driver can really make the difference, especially on a single qualifying lap," explains the Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport. “Both Nico and Michael have shown a great feeling for the circuit and the ability to master it in recent seasons.

“After all the talk of unpredictability of the teams' performance levels this year, there are also clear facts: three of five races have been won from pole position, including Nico's victory in China. In the last three races, Nico has scored a total of 41 points – the second highest total in the field after Sebastian Vettel with 43.

“Our focus in Monaco will be to extract the maximum from our further developed technical package. Giving the drivers a car they can trust and feel confident in is worth more here than at any other circuit on the calendar."

Mercedes is yet to win in Monaco but, in the company’s first Grand Prix there in 1955, Juan Manuel Fangio was forced to withdraw from the lead with transmission problems.