Vandoorne scores in Monaco and the championship: "It's a fantastic feeling"

"It's a fantastic feeling. Monaco is one of those very special races that every driver wants to win," jubilated Vandoorne in a Mercedes press release. "We had a tough weekend here last year but we really managed to turn things around this time."

Vandoorne takes victory and championship lead

According to Vandoorne, the goal was to drive a strong qualifying session, after which it became clear to him that he could compete at the top. He did so by taking the lead in the closing stages of the race and not letting it go. "We were really flying today, so many thanks to the team for putting such a strong car at my disposal," continued the Mercedes driver.

His victory also sees Vandoorne take the lead in the championship, something he would not have thought possible at the start of the season. "I feel like I've been fighting up front all season," said an overjoyed Vandoorne.

Teammate Nyck de Vries fared less well during the race. The Dutchman could not impress at the start and remained stuck in seventh place, eventually falling back to tenth.