"One of the most iconic street circuits on the calendar"
75 Years of Racing in Monte Carlo
Monaco’s Formula 1 legacy spans 75 years, yet the thrill of racing through its streets remains unmatched. For McLaren, the Monaco Grand Prix holds special significance—it’s where their F1 journey began in 1966 and has since been the backdrop for countless historic victories. From Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost to Mika Häkkinen and Lewis Hamilton, the circuit has crowned many McLaren legends.
As the 2025 season heats up, drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, alongside Team Principal Andrea Stella, share their insights on tackling Monaco’s unique challenges. Here’s what makes this race a crown jewel of F1.
Circuit de Monaco – Round 8
Race Weekend Schedule
- FP1: Fri 23 May | 11:30–12:30
- FP2: Fri 23 May | 15:00–16:00
- FP3: Sat 24 May | 10:30–11:30
- Qualifying: Sat 24 May | 14:00–15:00
- Race: Sun 25 May | 13:00–15:00
Circuit Stats
- First GP: 1950
- Laps: 78
- Length: 3.145 km
- Distance: 260.286 km
- Sectors: 3
- DRS Zones: 1
Driver Perspectives
👉 Lando Norris on Monaco:
"I’m mega excited to race here. Monaco’s history makes every lap special, and we’re pushing hard to build on our recent momentum."
👉 Oscar Piastri on the challenge:
"Monaco rewards precision. Last year was strong for me, and I’m determined to tackle its twists with full focus."
Andrea Stella’s Take:
"Monaco’s unique layout could spring surprises. We’re ready for the tight competition and focused on maximizing our performance."
Why Monaco Captivates F1 Fans
Glamour Meets Grit
Monaco remains F1’s most glamorous race, attracting global stars off-track while delivering on-track drama. The circuit’s natural beauty—yacht-lined harbors, Casino Square, and the tunnel—creates a visual spectacle unlike any other.
The Ultimate Driving Test
Drivers navigate inches from barriers, balancing aggression with precision. Key sections like Mirabeau and the Grand Hotel Hairpin demand flawless execution, making Qualifying decisive.
Challenges of the Monaco GP
- Overtaking Difficulty: Narrow streets and modern car widths limit passing opportunities.
- Margin for Error: Graze a wall, and your race could end instantly.
- Qualifying Crucial: Pole position often dictates Sunday’s outcome.
McLaren’s 2025 Season Snapshot
- Latest Race: P2 (Norris) and P3 (Piastri) at Imola.
- Standings: Leads Constructors’ Championship; Norris and Piastri top Drivers’ standings.
FAQs
Q: Why is Monaco called the "jewel of the F1 calendar"?
A: Its combination of historic prestige, glitzy ambiance, and technical difficulty makes it unparalleled.
Q: How important is Qualifying in Monaco?
A: Extremely. Pole position often leads to victory due to limited overtaking.
Q: What’s the toughest corner?
A: The Grand Hotel Hairpin—slowest turn in F1, requiring pinpoint accuracy.
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Explore the latest collaboration blending high-speed performance with high-fashion style.
Monaco isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of F1’s past, present, and future. Tune in to see who conquers its streets in 2025!