Lewis Hamilton has suggested that he has not enjoyed the experience of driving around Monaco in the build-up to Sunday's Grand Prix.
Despite an encouraging showing in Spain earlier this month, the seven-time world champion heads into this weekend's showpiece occasion sitting in sixth position in the standings, 64 points adrift of leader Max Verstappen.
However, Hamilton has indicated that he does not expect much joy from his time in Monaco, describing it as the "bumpiest" track that he has ever driven.
The legendary British driver was not clear over whether he thought that was down to his car or the track, but acknowledged that his optimism ahead of the race was not overly high.
The 37-year-old is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: "There are, like, 100 bumps on just one straight. I don't know whether the others are experiencing the same as us. But it's the bumpiest roller-coaster ride.
"It's the bumpiest the track's ever been. It's probably the bumpiest track I've ever driven. That makes it difficult but in general our car bounces a lot. It's different bouncing to what we've experienced in the past because it's in the low speed [corners] also, but it's not aero. The bumps are making it worse.
"Putting a lap together is, wow, whole new ground. I don't remember experiencing that before. The grip doesn't feel terrible but it's just eyeballs coming out of the sockets. As anticipated, I didn't think we would be as quick as the Ferraris and Red Bulls. Our battle is to try and stay ahead of the McLarens."
Mercedes, who are in third position in the Constructors' standings, hold a 70-point advantage over McLaren.
Darren Plant
