Monaco Grand Prix 2026: Yamakoshi wins chaotic Formula 3 Sprint Race
Hiyu Yamakoshi claimed victory in a drama-filled Formula 3 Sprint Race in Monaco, overcoming a red flag and multiple Safety Car interruptions to convert pole position into a win.
Hiyu Yamakoshi emerged victorious in a dramatic Formula 3 Sprint Race on the streets of Monaco, overcoming multiple interruptions to convert pole position into a memorable win.
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The opening race of the weekend delivered plenty of action, with a red flag, two incidents at the Fairmont Hairpin and a Safety Car period disrupting proceedings around the Principality's iconic street circuit.
Yamakoshi makes the perfect start
The Van Amersfoort Racing driver started from pole position after the top 12 qualifiers were reversed for the Sprint Race grid.
Yamakoshi successfully held the lead off the line and looked in control before the race was immediately thrown into chaos.
The race was halted on the opening lap following a multi-car collision at the Fairmont Hairpin involving Tuukka Taponen, Benavides, Brando Badoer and Ho.
Race control deployed the red flag to allow marshals to clear the track and remove the stranded cars.
After a lengthy interruption, the field returned to the circuit behind the Safety Car before racing resumed with just over 20 minutes remaining.
The action had barely restarted before another incident at the Fairmont Hairpin brought out the Safety Car once again.
This time, Ernesto Rivera, Freddie Slater and Théophile Naël were involved, although all three drivers were able to continue. With time running down, the field was released for one final dash to the finish.
Yamakoshi seals victory
Yamakoshi never lost the lead and claimed victory in a race that was repeatedly interrupted by incidents and Safety Car periods.
Gerrard Xie crossed the line in second place, while Bruno Del Pino completed the podium to give Van Amersfoort Racing two drivers in the top three.
Monaco weekend continues
While Formula 3 delivered plenty of entertainment on track, fans also enjoyed appearances from several Formula 1 drivers at the MGP Live Fanzone, including Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon.
Attention now turns back to Formula 1 as the teams continue their preparations ahead of Saturday's all-important qualifying session.