May 27, 2001 — The streets of Monte Carlo witnessed another chapter of Michael Schumacher’s brilliance as he cruised to his fifth Monaco Grand Prix victory, tightening his grip on the championship. But the drama started before the race even began.
Pole-sitter David Coulthard, usually a threat, stalled his McLaren on the formation lap—handing Schumacher a free pass into the first corner. From there, the Ferrari legend was in a league of his own. While Monaco is known for chaos, Schumacher made it look effortless, though he admitted it wasn’t exactly a joyride.
“Nothing spectacular… just clean, controlled driving,” he said afterward. “But it’s mentally draining. One slip, and it’s over. You’re just praying the car holds together.”
Behind him, Rubens Barrichello secured a Ferrari 1-2, while McLaren’s hopes faded fast—Coulthard stuck playing catch-up and Mika Häkkinen never quite finding his rhythm. By the checkered flag, Ferrari had sent a clear message: they were running away with both titles.
🏆 Standings Update:
- Drivers’ Championship: Schumacher now led Coulthard by 12 points.
- Constructors’ Championship: Ferrari stretched their advantage over McLaren to 32 points.
More than two decades later, no Ferrari driver has repeated Schumacher’s Monaco success—proof of just how hard it is to conquer F1’s crown jewel.
