Aussie Ricciardo's pit crew slip-up hands Hamilton Monaco GP crown

A botched pit stop has wrecked Daniel Ricciardo's hopes of success in the Monaco Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton finished ahead of the Australian for his first victory of the season.

The Australian started on pole position for Red Bull but in rainy conditions he lost the chance to win after his second visit to the pits was delayed due to his team failing to have the right tyres ready to attach to the car.

He did his best to fight back with an attacking drive but the world champion, whose decision to delay changing to slick tyres on a drying track was vindicated, stoutly defended his lead for 45 laps.

Hamilton's Mercedes team mate and championship leader Nico Rosberg finished seventh - 93.2 seconds behind - after being told to let the Briton past early on.

Mexico's Sergio Perez finished third for Force India.

Rosberg's championship lead over Hamilton was cut to 24 points after six rounds.