| Date | May 23rd-25th |
|---|---|
| Circuit Length | 3.337 km |
| Laps | 78 |
| Lap Record | 1:12.909 – Lewis Hamilton (2021) |
| Previous Winner | Charles Leclerc – Ferrari (2024) |
History of the F1 Monaco GP
The streets of Monaco first echoed with the roar of racing engines in 1929. It was cigarette manufacturer Antony Noghès who, alongside the Automobile Club de Monaco, organized the first-ever race through the winding roads of the glamorous Principality. The Monaco GP later became a key event in the inaugural Formula 1 World Championship in 1950 and has been a permanent fixture on the F1 calendar since 1955, showcasing the skills of the world’s top Formula 1 teams.
The King of Monaco
Ayrton Senna, widely regarded as one of the best Formula 1 drivers of all time, earned his legendary status not only through his incredible career achievements but also through his unmatched dominance at the Monaco GP. The Brazilian icon holds the record for the most victories at this prestigious street circuit, winning an extraordinary six times (1987, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, and 1993).
What set Senna apart at Monaco wasn’t just his wins but his ability to tame the challenging, narrow streets of Monte Carlo with breathtaking precision and control. His most iconic moment came in 1988, during qualifying, when he delivered a lap so astonishing that he was over 1.4 seconds faster than his teammate Alain Prost. Senna later described the experience as almost transcendent, saying he felt like he was operating on another level.
His streak of five consecutive victories from 1989 to 1993 is a feat that remains unmatched, earning him the well-deserved title of the “King of Monaco”. Senna’s brilliance at the Monaco GP highlighted not only his talent but also his unparalleled mental focus, allowing him to thrive in one of the most demanding races on the F1 schedule.
Even today, Senna’s legacy inspires teams and drivers as they tackle the tight corners, elevation changes, and unforgiving barriers of this legendary circuit. His mastery of Monaco remains a cornerstone of his enduring reputation as one of Formula 1’s all-time greats.
Circuit Specifications
- Corners: 19
- DRS Zones: 1
- Pit Stop Strategies: Monaco’s circuit is relatively gentle on tires due to its smooth asphalt and lower speeds, resulting in minimal tire degradation. This characteristic supports the viability of a one-stop strategy.
- Most Used Tires: Soft and Medium Compounds
A circuit that’s as iconic as it is unforgiving. Nelson Piquet famously compared driving around Monaco to “riding a bicycle around your living room”—and it’s hard to disagree. Despite its tight confines, the Monaco GP is a favorite among drivers, pushing their skills to the limit and demanding precision to the millimeter.
However, overtaking on these narrow streets is a monumental challenge, with the 2003 Grand Prix standing out as an extreme example, featuring zero on-track overtakes. The race’s unique dynamics make every move critical, with even the smallest mistake potentially impacting the F1 standings.
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Monaco GP FAQs
- What is the average speed of the Monaco GP?
The average speed is approximately 150 km/h, making it the slowest circuit on the F1 calendar due to its tight and twisty layout. - Which driver has the most wins at the Monaco GP?
Ayrton Senna holds the record with 6 victories. - When was the first Monaco GP held?
The first Monaco Grand Prix took place in 1929.