Since its humble origin in 1929, Monaco has taken pride in hosting the famous Grand Prix Formula One race, running through the streets of Monte Carlo. This year, the race kicks off Thursday May 22, with the final Grand Prix race to be held Sunday May 25. It is great to observe the race and check out the gorgeous view from the Ermanno Palace Terrace or for the ultimate viewing experience, you can watch from various private yachts resting along the harbor. 

 

The Monaco Grand Prix was first inducted into the Formula One World Championships in 1955 to be recognized on a global platform. Since its inauguration, the Monaco Grand Prix has become one of the most highly anticipated Formula One racing events in the world, jump starting the summer tourist season in Monaco. Over the years, the racing champions have been diverse in ethnicity and nationality, bringing together a large global community within the small country boarders, as thousands flock each year to watch the race. Graham Hill was arguably the most famous champion, nicknamed “Mr. Monaco,” as the first driver, hailing from England, to win the race five times during the 1960’s. Additionally, Brazilian native Ayrton Senna currently holds the record for six championships in Monaco, over stepping Hill’s five-win record at the 1993 race, while German native Michael Schumacher matched Hill’s five-win record at the 2001 race. Last year’s 2013 race saw German native Sebastian Vettel produce the fastest lap of the race, leaving the competition in the dust with a 1’16.577 lap around the track.

 

These record holding drivers are to be praised of their skill, as Monaco showcases the best Formula One racers on one of the most demanding race tracks in the world. The track itself is 2.07 miles long and drivers must complete 78 laps over the course of the race. Although the cars are highly technical, drivers must navigate efficiently through tight corners and the most narrow tracks in Formula One racing, with flawless technique and precise calculation in breaking, accelerating and gear shifting. Of course, there have been many accidents along the track, including Italian racer Alberto Ascari’s Lancia crash into the Monaco harbor in 1955, before proper safety barriers had been put up around the track. The fatal crash of 1967 occurred when Lorenzo Bandini’s Ferrari flipped and burst into flames, leading ultimately to his death in hospital three days later. Although deaths at the Monaco Grand Prix are rare, and the safety standards are significantly higher than in the 1960‘s, this is a risk that all drivers must weigh against their passion for racing.

 

The Monaco Grand Prix clearly brings together the most passionately gifted racers from around the world, making for an exciting long weekend of racing.