Image source, Getty Images

Given that Lewis Hamilton has been on pole position in three of the five races so far this season, he'll probably fancy his chances of finishing on top in qualifying later today.

However, if Thursday's practice was anything to go by, it won't just be Nico Rosberg he will have to be wary of.

Daniel Ricciardo, powered by a new spec Renault engine inside his Red Bull, topped second practice, finishing 0.6s clear of the Mercedes.

Red Bull could well be rising.

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Lewis Hamilton hasn't had much luck in Monaco, with his last win coming eight years ago.

A one stop race, coupled with the tight and twisty streets making overtaking difficult means doing well in qualifying later today is particularly important for any driver with aspirations of victory.

"Everyone here knows if you have pole position you are going to win, and with a one-stop race it's a procession," said Hamilton.

"I was messaging a friend the other day and he said 'I'm not coming to Monaco' because it's a train. "I said 'Yeah, I'm in it, and hopefully at the front'."

Look at this picture. Stunning. Iconic:

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For Lewis Hamilton, it may as well look like this:

Image source, Get

For as iconic a setting Monaco is for the spectator, for the driver the race can be a bit like sitting on the Birmingham to Stoke slow train.

Hamilton, though, probably won't mind. Just so long as he secures a first class ticket right at the front of the carriage in qualifying today.