Sergio Perez wins chaotic Monaco GP as Charles Leclerc rages after Ferrari bungle

Sergio Perez bounced back from Red Bull team orders that denied him a chance to race for victory in Spain a week ago to pick up his first Formula One victory of the season in a rain-hit Monaco Grand Prix.

Perez earned his third career victory after a questionable strategy call by Ferrari cost Charles Leclerc a win on his home circuit despite starting from pole.

Although Leclerc finished the race for the first time in four attempts, his fourth place allowed reigning world champion Max Verstappen to extend his lead in the points standings. Carlos Sainz finished second for Ferrari and Verstappen was third for Red Bull.

Red Bull and Ferrari have claimed all seven races this season, but the win on the slick city streets of Monaco went to Verstappen's teammate just one week after Perez was ordered to hand over the lead to during the Spanish Grand Prix.

The team promised Perez he would be allowed to race for wins and held their word in Monaco.

“You dream of winning this, and after your home race, there is no place more special to win,” Perez said after waving the Mexican flag.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner patted Perez on the back as he walked alongside the driver following the race.

“Checo was sensational,” Horner said. “It’s very tough in conditions like that but we got the calls right.”

Horner joined Perez on the podium and the driver struggled to hold back tears as he puffed his cheeks and wiped his eyes while the Mexican anthem played.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc takes a pitstop. EPA

“It’s a massive day for myself and my country. I am very happy."

Verstappen celebrated with Perez, whom he considers the best teammate of his career. “Amazing result for Checo,” he said. “Very pleased for him.”

Leclerc led from pole