Nelson Piquet memorably described driving around Monaco as “like riding a bicycle around your living room”.
Such is the precision needed to manoeuvre the narrow streets of the most prestigious race of the season.
The Circuit de Monaco: A Jewel in the Crown of Formula One
The Circuit de Monaco, home to the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, is one of the most iconic and challenging tracks in the world of Formula One. Nestled in the streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamine, the circuit is a symbol of glamour, precision, and racing excellence. The Monaco Grand Prix held its first race in 1929, has been a part of the Formula One World Championship since 1950.
The Circuit de Monaco stands out not just for its technical challenge but also for its unique blend of history, glamour, and breathtaking views. Whether you're a die-hard F1 fan or a casual observer, the Monaco Grand Prix offers an unparalleled experience in the world of motorsport.
Here's an in-depth look at what makes the Circuit de Monaco a must-see for any F1 enthusiast.
Track Details
Length and Configuration
Length: 3.337 kilometers (2.074 miles)
Turns: 19 corners
Race Day Lap Record: 1:12.909 by Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes (2021)
Corners and Key Sections
1. Sainte Dévote: The first corner is a tight right-hander where drivers often jostle for position right after the start.
2. Beau Rivage: A steep uphill section that requires careful throttle control.
3. Massenet: A fast, sweeping left-hander leading into Casino Square.
4. Casino Square: One of the most picturesque sections, offering a blend of speed and finesse.
5. Mirabeau Haute: A challenging right-hand corner.
6. Grand Hotel Hairpin: The slowest corner in Formula One, demanding precise steering.
7. Mirabeau Bas: A lower elevation 'twin' of Mirabeau Haute.
8. Portier: A critical right-hander leading onto the famous tunnel.
9. Le Tunnel: A unique high-speed section with a sudden change in lighting conditions.
10. and 11. Nouvelle Chicane: After the tunnel, this chicane is a prime overtaking spot.
12. Tabac: A high-speed left-hander that tests drivers' courage.
13. to 16. Swimming Pool: A series of quick direction changes that require perfect timing, including the Virage Louis Chiron chicane at turns 13. and 14.
17. More of a sweeping straightaway, this corner has the DRS detection zone.
18. Rascasse: A tight right-hander leading into the final sector named for a renowned bar.
19. Anthony Noghes: The final corner, named after the founder of the Monaco Grand Prix.
DRS Detection Zones
Monaco features one DRS zones to aid overtaking which is detected at turn 17 and activates shortly after turn 19.
Track Sectors
The Circuit de Monaco is divided into three sectors:
Sector 1: From the start/finish line through to Massenet, including the Sainte Dévote corner.
Sector 2: From Casino Square through to the exit of the tunnel, including the famous hairpins and the port section.
Sector 3: From the Nouvelle Chicane to the finish line, covering the Swimming Pool, La Rascasse, and Anthony Noghes corners.
Speed and Overtaking Opportunities
The narrow streets of Monaco make overtaking extremely difficult, adding to the challenge. The Nouvelle Chicane and Sainte Dévote offer the best opportunities for overtaking, but precision is key. Top speeds can reach up to 290 km/h (180 mph) in the tunnel, but most of the track demands technical skill rather than raw speed.
Attending the Monaco Formula One Grand Prix?
Best Vantage Points
1. Casino Square: Offers a fantastic view of cars navigating the tricky Massenet corner and the picturesque square.
2. Grandstand K (Swimming Pool): Provides a panoramic view of the high-speed Swimming Pool section.
3. La Rascasse: Excellent for viewing cars up close as they navigate the tight penultimate corner.
4. Monaco Yacht Club: A luxurious option offering views of the tunnel exit and the approach to the Nouvelle Chicane.
5. Grand Hotel Hairpin: Overlooks the slowest corner in F1, ideal for seeing the cars perform intricate maneuvers.
Things to Do in the Area
Explore Monte Carlo: Visit the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo, the Prince's Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum.
Dining: Enjoy world-class dining at restaurants like Le Louis XV by Alain Ducasse.
Shopping: Indulge in luxury shopping along the Avenue des Beaux-Arts.
Beaches: Relax at Larvotto Beach, a beautiful spot for a break from the race.
Nightlife: Experience vibrant nightlife at clubs like Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo.
Tickets too Expensive?
Why not sign up to our waitlist to get to the front of the queue to enter our F1 Grand Prix ticket prize draw*? One lucky winner will get two premium hospitality tickets to a European F1 GP including flights and accommodation and get a spectacular view of the wheel-to-wheel battles.
So keep an eye on your email for the launch of our prize draw and get ready to cheer for your favorite drivers! 🏁🎫
*PitPerks prize draws will be open to UK residents only.
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