Monaco Formula One Grand Prix
By rights, the Grand Prix de Monaco; held on the narrow streets of the tiny Principality-should not exist!. At just over 2 miles in length, the circuit is theoretically too confined for the demands of Formula One. Yet anyone trying to find a word said against this legendary magical venue will struggle, for Monaco truly embraces the spirit of Grand Prix motor racing.
The basic layout of the circuit was established with the start/finish line on the road above the harbour, followed by a tight right at Sainte Devote, then up the hill and left into Casino Square. On the exit of the Square the roads switches downhill to the Mirabeau corner, followed by the ultra-slow Lowes Hairpin; named for the famous hotel, which later became The Grand. Then it's into the long, slightly right-hand curved tunnel before emerging back into the sunshine for the chicane at the harbour side, followed by the tricky swimming pool section. Finally, it's down to the right-hand final bend at the Gasometer; now known as Rascasse, and back into the start/finish straight. Overtaking opportunities at Monaco are few and far between, and the high curbs and roadside walls present a constant threat to drivers who stay off-line. The racing is always eventful at Monaco, and it remains today, the jewel of the Formula One calendar. |
CIRCUIT DE MONACO
LOCATION: Monte Carlo, Monaco
CIRCUIT TYPE: Street Circuit
CIRCUIT LENGTH: 2.07 Miles
LAP RECORD: 1:14.439 - M.Schumacher 2004
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