With new tracks and locations being added to the calendar over the past decade, Formula One’s prestige and popularity have never been in a better place. The Monaco Grand Prix has been one of the pinnacle events for the sport, but does the Circuit de Monaco still hold the same intrigue as it once did?
Monaco: A Gambler’s Paradise
When Formula One is in town, the streets of Monte Carlo are packed full of glitz and glamour. On their travels to Monaco, Formula One fans will be treated to numerous world-class restaurants, spectacular scenery, and exceptional casinos. At the famous Monte Carlo Casino, online roulette, poker, baccarat, and much more are on offer. Alongside the thrilling racing, there are many things to see and do in the stunning principality.
This spring season, Monaco is blue like the sea & sky, pink for glamour & parties, red for passion & speed.
At the program : Rose Ball, Monaco Grand Prix, 150th anniversary of the Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo & Monte-Carlo Festival des Etoilés… https://t.co/pSjj4wvEGR pic.twitter.com/9vc623Qodb— Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (@MonteCarloSBM) March 17, 2024
Monaco, also known for its history, shopping centres, and abundance of bars, is a playground for the rich and famous. Even when the racing is not on, the principality is hugely popular among tourists thanks to its luxurious surroundings and unique characteristics.
Fascinating F1 Fans Since 1950
The Monaco circuit was built in 1929 and was first used in Formula One in 1950. The Monte Carlo streets have been overtaken by the speed and thrill of open-wheel action ever since. The Monaco Grand Prix is still regarded as one of the most prestigious races on the calendar, even though newer Grand Prix circuits like the Suzuka Circuit in Japan and the Miami International Autodrome in the United States have drawn in enormous sums of money.
The Grand Prix of Monaco can still attract the most prominent celebrities. In 2023, the likes of Tom Holland, Orlando Bloom, Kylie Minogue, and Neymar attended the event. The celebrities are treated to incredible action on the track as the drivers try to navigate narrow roads, tussle with tight corners, and evaluate elevation changes. Qualifying is also an integral part of the event, and the presence of celebrities can add extra pressure on the drivers. It all adds more spice to the Monaco spectacle.
Famous Past Winners
Every Formula One driver will tell you that winning the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the biggest challenges in the sport. Taking the chequered flag at Circuit de Monaco is no mean feat, and several of the very best drivers never managed to accomplish it. However, many big names have won in Monaco, including Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Jackie Stewart, and Alain Prost.
F1 2024. Here we come 👊 pic.twitter.com/vvYL8BAx6P
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) February 14, 2024
The late great Ayrton Senna was the master of Monaco during his illustrious career. The Brazilian ace picked up six race wins in the principality, which is still the record, with his sixth and final success coming in 1993.
Over the years, Formula One has expanded its portfolio and taken fans to luxurious places all over the globe. We have been treated to several spectacular races in a host of stunning locations, but the Monaco Grand Prix remains Formula One’s pinnacle event in terms of prestige.
Fans are already gearing up for the 2024 edition, which will undoubtedly be another memorable race in Monaco. Will a familiar face win the 2024 GP, or will a new name be etched into the history books?
