The Monaco Grand Prix always garners excitement – if not for the action on the track but the splendour of cars racing through the streets of the principality.

And for Mercedes, it could offer them their most realistic shot at getting two cars challenging for a podium finish.

Their updated-car is not as good as Ross Brawn and Co. were hoping it would be, but if any track rewards driver courage over perfectly functioning aerodynamic packages, it’s the Monte Carlo circuit.

Drivers who can explore the very edges of the track can pick up valuable time, though it takes a courageous soul to flirt with the barriers at high speeds, as it’s incredibly easy to end up with no front wing.

Historically, Michael Schumacher was one of the best drivers to have for this situation. The seven-time World Champion has stood on the top step of the Royal Box five times, one behind the record set by the late Ayrton Senna.

However, the 41-year-old did not win the race in his last five attempts before retirement.

When Fernando Alonso pulled off a thrilling overtaking manoeuvre in Japan in 2005, he stated: “at times like that, I always remember that Michael has two kids.”

This was a criticism of Schumacher when he decided to return and it could explain his lack of success at Monaco since 2001. Will he still be able to risk everything for a couple of extra-tenths in qualifying to get ahead of his challengers?

As for Nico Rosberg, there is a general consensus that the younger generation of F1 drivers are fearless. Rosberg showed in practice – where he posted the second fastest time – that he is willing to push his car to the limit and he could benefit greatly this weekend.

To win at Monaco it is almost essential to qualify on the front row. Only once in the last six years has the driver on pole not won – Lewis Hamilton started third when he won in 2008. If Rosberg or Schumacher can get to the front row, they should get a podium at least.

Of course it will be a big ask but stranger things have happened in the F1 world, especially at Monaco. Providing they get through the chaos that will be the first session of qualifying, anything can happen.

After this weekend, it looks as if only wet-weather will be able to stop the Red Bulls charging off into the distance.

This weekend could well be Mercedes’ last chance at challenging for a win.

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