Crashes and an on-fire champion: Talking points from Monaco qualifying

We're still reeling from the epic qualifying battle to determine the top 10 starting positions for this afternoon's Monaco Grand Prix.

It was an epic showdown, but in the end, Red Bull's Max Verstappen snatched first position with a late drive to the line, posting a 1:11.365 - 0.084 seconds clear of Fernando Alonso.

The hour-long qualifying session had plenty of drama and edge-of-your-seat moments, making it the most exciting qualifying of the year so far.

No margin for error

The Circuit de Monaco is not just the shortest track on the F1 calendar, but also the most technical. And the most brutal. One mistake could cost you a chance at pole position, or risk non-participation in the race if crash-caused damage is too severe.

In the practice sessions, Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) and Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) were among several drivers who met the wall, and in qualifying, it was Sergio Perez's turn.

READ: 'Pole position means a lot here' - Top drivers react to superb Monaco GP qualifying

The Red Bull driver crashed into the wall at Turn 1, with the improving grip levels allowing drivers to improve their times. It left Perez with a mountain to climb from dead last if he wants to make an impression on the race, and at least salvage one point on a track notorious for not being kind to overtaking.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said: "I think we might have to change the chassis just as a precaution, to be honest with you. We'll make that call when we've got it back.

"It's so hard (here). Max started from that position (in 2018), and I think he just made it into the top 10, so scoring points will be the target for Checo. Because it's likely to be a one-stop race, you're caught in the crocodile, and you can't use your pace."

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