Monaco grand prix

The Monaco F1 Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious and glamorous events in the Formula 1 calendar. It is also one of the most challenging and demanding tracks for the drivers. They have to navigate the narrow and twisty streets of Monte Carlo at high speeds, with little margin for error.

The circuit was first raced on in 1929. It has been a permanent fixture of the F1 World Championship since 1955.

It is the shortest track on the calendar. At just 3.337 kilometers long, but it has the most laps, at 782. The lap record is 1:14.260, set by Max Verstappen in 2018.

The 2023 Monaco Grand Prix is scheduled to take place on May 28. It is reportedly under threat by protestors who are targeting the event. The race is expected to be a close battle between Red Bull’s Verstappen and Perez, Ferrari’s Alonso and Leclerc, and Mercedes’ Hamilton and Bottas.

The Monaco Grand Prix is a unique and challenging track that every driver dreams of conquering. It is a race that combines history, glamour and excitement like no other.

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Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for a thrilling experience, our guide has everything you need to know about the Monaco Grand Prix.

Index For The Article

When Is The Monaco F1 Grand Prix 2023

The schedule for the weekend is listed below.

Thursday May 25
11.25am: F3 Practice
12.55pm: F2 Practice
2pm: Drivers’ Press Conference

Friday May 26
10.05am: F3 Qualifying
12pm: Monaco GP Practice One (session starts 12.30pm)
2.05pm: F2 Qualifying
3.45pm: Monaco GP Practice Two (session starts 4pm)
5.30pm: The F1 Show: Monaco

Saturday May 27
9.55am: F3 Sprint
11.15am: Monaco GP Practice Three (session starts 11.30am)
1.30pm: F2 Sprint
2:30pm: Monaco GP Qualifying build-up

Sunday May 28
7.15am: F3 Feature Race
8.45am: F2 Feature Race
12.30pm: Grand Prix Sunday Monaco GP build-up
2pm: THE MONACO GRAND PRIX

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The History of the Monaco Grand Prix

1950_monaco_grand_prix_by_f1_history

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most iconic and prestigious races in Formula 1. It is also one of the oldest and most challenging.

The race takes place on the narrow and twisty streets of Monte Carlo. The race is part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport. This includes the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The first Monaco Grand Prix was held in 1929. It was organized by Antony Noghès, the president of the Automobile Club de Monaco. The event at the support of Prince Louis II.

The race was won by William Grover-Williams, driving a Bugatti. The race was not part of the official Formula 1 calendar until 1950. It became the second round of the inaugural world championship.

Monaco was then held every year until 1954. After this it was held every other year until 1963, when it became a permanent fixture.

The Monaco Grand Prix has witnessed many memorable moments and legendary drivers in its history. Some of the highlights include:

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 1950s

1955, Alberto Ascari crashed his Lancia
Crashed Lancia

In 1955, Alberto Ascari crashed his Lancia into the harbor after missing a chicane. He survived the plunge and swam to safety but died four days later in a testing accident at Monza.

In 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio won his second and last Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Maserati. He also set the fastest lap of the race, which remained unbeaten for 16 years.

Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 1960s

Monaco F1 Grand Prix Sterling Moss
Sterling Moss

In 1961, Stirling Moss won his third and final Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Lotus. He held off the faster Ferraris of Richie Ginther and Phil Hill with a masterful display of defensive driving.

In 1965, Graham Hill won his third Monaco Grand Prix, becoming the first driver to win the race three times. He would go on to win two more times in 1968 and 1969, earning him the nickname “Mr. Monaco”.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 1970s

In 1970, Jochen Rindt won his only Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Lotus. He overtook Jack Brabham on the last lap after Brabham made a mistake at the final corner and hit the barrier.

In 1972, Jean-Pierre Beltoise won his only Formula 1 race, driving a BRM. He triumphed in wet and slippery conditions, beating Jackie Stewart by 38 seconds.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 1980s

In 1982, Riccardo Patrese won his first Formula 1 race, driving a Brabham. He inherited the lead after a chaotic final lap that saw Alain Prost crash out while leading. René Arnoux and Didier Pironi run out of fuel, and Andrea de Cesaris also stall with an empty tank.

1984, Ayrton Senna
Ayrton Senna At Toleman

In 1984, Ayrton Senna announced his arrival as a future star, driving a Toleman. He started from 13th on the grid and stormed through the field in heavy rain, catching race leader Alain Prost.

The race was stopped on lap 31 due to safety concerns, giving Prost the win by half a point. Senna would go on to win six times in Monaco (1987, 1989-1993). He set a record for the most wins at the circuit.

In 1988, Alain Prost won his fourth and last Monaco Grand Prix, driving a McLaren. He beat his teammate and rival Ayrton Senna by seven seconds after Senna crashed out. At that point Senna was leading by over a minute.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 1990s

1992, Nigel Mansell Monaco F1 Grand Prix
1992, Nigel Mansell Monaco

In 1992, Nigel Mansell won his only Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Williams. He dominated the race until he suffered a puncture on lap 71 and had to pit.

He re-joined behind Ayrton Senna and tried to pass him for several laps. Senna defended brilliantly and held on to second place by 0.2 seconds.

In 1996, Olivier Panis won his only Formula 1 race, driving a Ligier.

He started from 14th on the grid and survived a chaotic race that saw only four cars finish.

He passed Eddie Irvine for the lead on lap 74 and crossed the line 4.8 seconds ahead of David Coulthard.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 2000s

In 2004, Jarno Trulli won his only Formula 1 race, driving a Renault. He started from pole position and led for most of the race, holding off Jenson Button by 0.4 seconds.

lewis-hamilton-fernando-alonso-mclaren_3872043

In 2006, Fernando Alonso won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Renault. He became the first Spanish driver to win at Monaco and also took over the championship lead from Michael Schumacher.

In 2008, Lewis Hamilton won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a McLaren. He started from third on the grid. He overcame a puncture on lap six to take the lead on lap 54. Lewis survived a late safety car period and crossed the line 3 seconds ahead of Robert Kubica.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 2010 – 2015

In 2010, Mark Webber won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Red Bull. He started from pole position and led every lap of the race, despite four safety car interventions. He beat his teammate Sebastian Vettel by 0.4 seconds.

In 2011, Sebastian Vettel won his only Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Red Bull.

He started from pole position and held off a late challenge from Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button. Both drivers were on fresher tires.

The race was red-flagged on lap 72 after a multi-car crash at the Swimming Pool complex. It resumed for a six-lap sprint to the finish. Vettel crossed the line 1.1 seconds ahead of Alonso.

2011 Nico Roseberg Monaco F1 Grand Prix
2011 Nico Roseberg Monaco

In 2013, Nico Rosberg won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Mercedes. He started from pole position and led every lap of the race. Thus was despite three safety car periods and one red flag.

He became the first son of a former Monaco Grand Prix winner to win the race. His dad Keke Rosberg’s win in in 1983.

In 2014, Nico Rosberg won his second consecutive Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Mercedes.

He started from pole position after controversially causing a yellow flag in qualifying. That prevented his teammate Lewis Hamilton from improving his time.

He led every lap of the race and beat Hamilton by 9.2 seconds.

In 2015, Nico Rosberg won his third consecutive Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Mercedes. He started from second on the grid and inherited the lead on lap 64. This was after Lewis Hamilton pitted under a safety car and dropped to third.

He became the fourth driver to win three Monaco Grands Prix in a row. The other three were Graham Hill, Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix Between 2016- 2020

In 2016, Lewis Hamilton won his second Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Mercedes. He started from third on the grid and overtook Daniel Ricciardo for the lead on lap 33 after Ricciardo’s pit stop was delayed by a tire mix-up. He held off Ricciardo in wet and dry conditions and crossed the line 7.2 seconds ahead of him.

In 2017, Sebastian Vettel won his second Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Ferrari. He started from second on the grid and passed his teammate Kimi Räikkönen for the lead on lap 39 after Räikkönen pitted earlier. He led every lap until the finish and beat Räikkönen by 3.1 seconds.

Daniel Ricciardo 2018 Monaco Grand Prix
Daniel Ricciardo 2018 Monaco

In 2018, Daniel Ricciardo won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Red Bull. He started from pole position and led every lap of the race, despite suffering a loss of power from lap 28 onwards. He managed to control the pace and fend off Sebastian Vettel by 7.3 seconds.

In 2019, Lewis Hamilton won his third Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Mercedes.

He started from pole position and led every lap of the race, despite being on the wrong tire strategy and having to resist pressure from Max Verstappen for most of the race.

He crossed the line 2.6 seconds ahead of Sebastian Vettel, after Verstappen was given a five-second penalty for an unsafe release in the pits.

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Monaco F1 Grand Prix In The 2020s

In 2020, the Monaco Grand Prix was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the first time since 1954 that the race was not held.

In 2021, Max Verstappen won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Red Bull.

He started from second on the grid and inherited the lead on lap 11 when pole-sitter Charles Leclerc failed to start the race due to a driveshaft issue. He led every lap of the race and beat Carlos Sainz by 8.9 seconds.

In 2022, Lando Norris won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a McLaren. He started from third on the grid and passed Lewis Hamilton for second on lap 18 after Hamilton pitted earlier.

Lando took advantage of a slow pit stop by Max Verstappen on lap 35 and moved into the lead. He held off Verstappen in the closing stages and crossed the line 1.2 seconds ahead of him.

2022 Charles Leclerc Monaco F1 Grand Prix
2022 Charles Leclerc Monaco

In 2023, Charles Leclerc won his first Monaco Grand Prix, driving a Ferrari.

Charles started from pole position and led every lap of the race, despite having to manage his tires and fuel.

He became the first Monegasque driver to win his home race and also set the fastest lap of the race. He beat Valtteri Bottas by 4.5 seconds.

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The Impact of Monaco on F1 Driver Legacies

For many Formula One drivers, winning the Monaco Grand Prix is a career-defining moment. The race is one of the most prestigious on the calendar, and it requires a unique set of skills to win. Drivers who win at Monaco become legends of the sport, and their names are etched into the history books.

Many of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history have won at Monaco. Ayrton Senna, widely regarded as one of the best drivers of all time, won the race six times. Graham Hill, another Formula One legend, won the race five times. Michael Schumacher, one of the most successful drivers in the sport’s history, also has five Monaco victories to his name.

But winning at Monaco is not just about the glory – it can also have a significant impact on a driver’s career. A good performance at Monaco can help to attract the attention of top teams and sponsors, and it can lead to bigger and better opportunities down the line.

The Circuit De Monaco: A Unique And Challenging Track

The Circuit de Monaco is one of the most unique and challenging tracks in the world of motorsports. The track winds through the narrow streets of Monte Carlo, with tight corners and steep inclines that require precision driving and nerves of steel.

It is also one of the slowest, with an average speed of just 160 km/h.

The track is famous for its iconic landmarks, such as the Casino Square, the Tunnel, the Swimming Pool and the Rascasse.

It is also notorious for its lack of overtaking opportunities, which makes qualifying crucial for securing a good position on the grid.

The drivers have to cope with changing light conditions, as they enter and exit the Tunnel, and varying grip levels, as they switch from asphalt to concrete surfaces.

The Track Layout

2022 Charles Leclerc Monaco F1 Grand Prix

The track consists of 19 turns, 10 to the right and 9 to the left2. The sequence of straights and corners is as follows:

  • Start/finish straight.
  • Turn 1: Sainte Devote (right)
  • Turn 2: Beau Rivage (left)
  • Turn 3: Massenet (left)
  • Turn 4: Casino (right)
  • Turn 5: Mirabeau Haute (right)
  • Turn 6: Mirabeau Bas (left)
  • Turn 7: Grand Hotel Hairpin (left)
  • Turn 8: Portier (right)
  • Tunnel
  • Turn 9: Nouvelle Chicane (left-right)
  • Turn 10: Tabac (left)
  • Turn 11: Louis Chiron (right)
  • Turn 12: Piscine (left-right-left-right)
  • Turn 13: La Rascasse (right)
  • Turn 14: Anthony Noghes (right)
  • Turn 15: Swimming Pool (left)
  • Turn 16: Rascasse (right)
  • Turn 17: Anthony Noghes (right)
  • Turn 18: Swimming Pool (left)
  • Turn 19: La Rascasse (left)

The circuit is famous for its narrow parameters, its unforgiving nature, and the difficulty of overtaking.

The Monaco Grand Prix is a test of skill, concentration and endurance for the drivers, who have to complete more than two hours of racing without any rest.

It is also a spectacle for the fans, who can enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, the yachts and the celebrities that flock to the Principality every year.

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The Drivers And Teams To Watch

The Monaco Grand Prix attracts some of the biggest names in motorsports, and the 2021 race is no exception.

The 2023 Monaco Grand Prix is a prestigious Formula 1 race that takes place in Monte Carlo, Monaco. The 2023 edition will be the 80th and will be held from Thursday 25 May to Sunday 28 May 202312. The race is known for its tight bends and tricky obstacles, as well as its scenic views of the Grand Hotel and Port Hercule. Fans can watch the race from exclusive suites, reserved grandstands, or luxury yachts1.

The Drivers To Watch

Some of the drivers and teams to watch at the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix are:

Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, will continue to vie for the championship. This is the scene where Max Verstappen has accused Sergio Perez of deliberately crashing  in the qualifying rounds to prevent him getting in pole.

Fernando Alonso, who will be racing for his third Monaco Grand Prix victory after returning to Formula 1 in 2021. Alonso won in Monaco in 2006 and 2007 with Renault2, and with the impressive 2023 Aston Martin he has a chance to continue his stunning 2023 performance..

Charles Leclerc, who will be hoping to win his home race for the first time after crashing out of pole position in 2021 and missing the race due to gearbox damage. Leclerc is also the first Monegasque driver to score points in Monaco.

Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, if Mercedes can sort their problems out there is always a chance that the old – fierce – rivalry will start again. Verstappen won the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix, while Hamilton has won three times in Monaco (2008, 2016, and 2019).

Keep your eyes in George Russel who, even with an inferior car, has never been far off the pace.

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The Teams To Watch

Although the 2023 season has been turned on its head with the old guard having been out in notice, the following teams are still the ones to watch.

Red Bull Racing, who will be aiming to defend their constructors’ championship title and repeat their success in Monaco, where they have won four times (2010, 2011, 2018, and 2022)2.

Mercedes, who will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing performance in Monaco in 2022, where they failed to score claw back ground points for the first time since 2012. Mercedes have won five times in Monaco (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2019).

They are introducing the new “Zero Pod” W14 model, with the hopes that they will begin to be competitive.

Aston Martin, who will be making their debut as a Formula 1 team in Monaco after rebranding from Racing Point in 2021. Aston Martin have a rich history in motorsport and have won the 24 Hours of Le Mans six times.

Ferrari, although inconstant the red team have put in some impressive performances.

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The Best Places To Watch The Monaco Grand Prix

Watching the race live is a dream for many motorsport fans, but where are the best places to sit and enjoy the action? Here are some of the best grandstands, general admission and hospitality options for the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix.

Monaco-Grand-Prix-spectator-map-1

Grandstand K

This grandstand offers a seat in the very heart of the action, overlooking the Tabac corner and the harbor.

Fans will see the cars exit the Nouvelle Chicane and speed down towards Tabac, where they will whip round to encounter the final sector. It is a high-speed section, but as the exit of the Nouvelle Chicane is head-on with your seat, you will see more of the cars for longer.

Spectators will also hear the roar of the engines at the start behind you as the cars line up on the pit straight and fire up through turn one at Sainte Devote1.

Grandstand T

This grandstand is located on the short burst towards Rascasse, where many drivers will try to overtake on the tight right-hander, often to no avail.

It also faces and has a clear view of the pit boxes, so you will see the pit crews in action and any drama that ensues, such as unsafe releases or botched stops. It has a big screen, so you won’t miss any of the action.

Grandstands N, O, P

These grandstands are built on the water of the harbor, opposite the famous swimming pool section. You will see the cars speed through this complex of fast corners, where precision and bravery are required.

You will also enjoy a stunning view of the yachts and the sea.

Casino Square

This is one of the most iconic and quintessential views of Monaco, across from Casino de Monte-Carlo and Cafe de Paris.

Fans will see the cars approach from Massenet and brake hard for Casino Square, where they will turn right and head downhill towards Mirabeau. This is a single corner view but a classic one.

Trackside Yacht

If you want to experience Monaco in style, you can watch the race from a luxury yacht moored in the harbor.

You will have a close-up view of the cars as they speed past you on either side of the yacht, as well as a panoramic view of the circuit and the city.

You will also enjoy gourmet catering, open bar, live entertainment and access to exclusive parties.

Miramar Terrace

This is a rooftop terrace located above Grandstand K, offering a bird’s eye view of the Tabac corner and the harbor. Fans will see the cars exit the Nouvelle Chicane and speed down towards Tabac, where they will whip round to encounter the final sector.

You will also have a view of the pit straight and Sainte Devote. You will enjoy a buffet lunch, open bar, live TV feed and hostess service.

Champions Club Ermanno Penthouse

This is an exclusive penthouse located above Grandstand B, offering some of the best panoramic views in all of Monaco.

Fans will see the cars approach from Massenet and brake hard for Casino Square, where they will turn right and head downhill towards Mirabeau.

You will also have a view of the pit straight, Sainte Devote, Beau Rivage and Portier. You will enjoy gourmet catering, open bar, F1 legend appearances, guided paddock access and more.

Formula 1 Paddock Club

This is the ultimate hospitality option for Formula 1 fans, located above the team garages and overlooking the pit lane.

Fabs will see the cars enter and exit the pits, as well as the start and finish of the race. You will also have access to the F1 Paddock, where you can meet drivers, team principals and celebrities. You will enjoy fine dining, open bar, live entertainment, pit lane walks and more.

General Admission

If you are on a budget or prefer a more casual atmosphere, you can opt for general admission tickets, which allow you to access various areas around the circuit.

You can watch the race from Rocher Hill, which offers a distant view of the track and the harbor. You can also watch from Z1 Zone, which is located near Sainte Devote and offers a view of the first corner.

However, these areas are very crowded and have limited facilities.

No matter where you sit, you will be part of one of the most thrilling and glamorous events in motorsport.

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How To Find Monaco Grand Prix Tickets

If you are interested in buying tickets for the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix, you have several options to choose from.

Tickets are available from the official Formula 1 website, which offers a variety of grandstand and general admission tickets, as well as packages that include hotel accommodation and other benefits.

You can also buy tickets from F1 Experiences, which offers exclusive access to hospitality suites, trackside yachts, penthouses, paddock club and more.

Try other authorized retailers, such as gp1tickets.com and F1Destinations.com, which offer a range of tickets and travel packages.

The ticket prices vary depending on the location, date and availability of the seats.

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How Much Do Tickets Cost?

The cheapest tickets are usually for Friday practice sessions, which are priced at €175 for most grandstands4.

The most expensive tickets are usually for Sunday race day, which can cost over €500 for some grandstands4. The 3-day grandstand tickets range from €777 to €13384.

The general admission tickets are also cheaper on Friday (€133 for Rocher Hill). Tickets are more expensive on Sunday (€297 for Rocher Hill and €496 for Z1 Zone)3.

The hospitality and VIP options are more costly but offer a unique and luxurious experience of the Monaco Grand Prix.

The tickets for the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix are expected to sell out fast. It is advisable to book your tickets as soon as possible.

You can also check the availability and prices of the tickets on the websites mentioned above. You can also compare the different views and features of each ticket category on these websites.

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most thrilling and glamorous events in motorsport. Watching it live is a dream for many fans. Don’t miss this opportunity to buy your tickets for the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix.

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Tips For Attending The Monaco Grand Prix

Attending the Monaco Grand Prix is an unforgettable experience, but it can also be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time at the race: arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, bring earplugs as the noise level can be intense, and be prepared for crowds and long lines. Additionally, consider booking accommodations and tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Most Iconic Moments in Monaco Grand Prix History.

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The Future OF The Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix has a rich history dating back to 1929.. What does the future hold for this iconic race?

With the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, there have been discussions about the possibility of introducing electric or hybrid cars to the race.

Additionally, there have been talks about expanding the track or even moving the race to a different location. Only time will tell what changes and innovations will come to the Monaco Grand Prix in the future.

By Jonny Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Jonny Noble I’m a dedicated F1 Writer – and I’ve Been One for Over Four Decades, I’ve been intimately immersed in the world of Formula One for more than 44 years. That’s longer than most professional commentators can boast! As an independent writer, I offer a unique perspective on the entire F1 landscape, free from biases that might cloud the discussion. We dive deep into the exhilarating, frustrating, and captivating facets of the F1 universe. So, regardless of my amateur status, one thing is undeniable: four decades of dedicated F1 fandom have forged strong opinions worth exploring!