First time this team can triumph in 2025? Schumacher predicts surprising contenders

After winning the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, Verstappen remains in third place in the drivers' standings, sitting 22 points behind Oscar Piastri.

In 2024, the Dutch driver finished in P6 in what was a challenging weekend for Red Bull Racing. Verstappen expects another tough weekend to follow, and Schumacher also thinks the Austrian team will have to deal with some difficulties.

"The circuit is very bumpy, with high kerbstones," the German said in the Backstage Boxengasse Podcast.

Interestingly enough, Schumacher believes that McLaren might also have some challenges themselves. "McLaren might be a favorite, but when it comes to strategy, they often get in their own way. And this weekend, that will be very important. Especially in the qualifying round, and that certainly applies to Lando Norris".

According to the German, the driver who is currently 13 points behind Piastri in the standings is under immense pressure, and especially at a track like Monaco, every mistake is punished."That means someone who is mentally a bit more vulnerable will have a hard time performing well. They will be more cautious, I would say, more afraid to make a mistake or to push to the limit".

If he expects Red Bull and McLaren are to struggle, who has the best chance according to Schumacher? "Ferrari stands a good chance here," the German said. "Because mechanical grip and cars that can smoothly roll over the kerbs are a big advantage here."

Another team he is keeping an eye on for a strong result would be Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon's Williams.

"Williams is strong at the moment and here in Monaco, if you manage to drive a perfect lap and are in front, then you have a good chance," the former driver concluded.