Monaco Grand Prix: Formula One’s darling

Modified May 25, 2012 10:59 GMT

Monaco GP is considered as the cream of Formula One racing, it is the most historic and the iconic circuit in the World, and it is back in action this weekend as Formula One prepares for its 70th Monaco Grand Prix.

Monaco Grand prix has been in existence since the inception of Formula One, and will continue to be on the race calendar for decades to come. The famous Casino Square, the tunnel and preceding chicane are few of the elements of the historic track, which drivers consider an honour and privilege to win.

The ecstasy and feeling of finishing first is unmatched and hence winning at Monaco equals to nothing else.

Let us explore what Monaco has to offer its fans this season:

On track | Excitement and Rush

The narrow and tricky corners of Monaco require utmost driving precision, and a small mistake could end anyone’s race. Most of the times, the race extends to almost two hours, thereby making driving stressful as the clock ticks.

This season, various cars have experienced different rate of tire degradation like never before. It has lead to cars splitting into different sets of groups on the track. Each set includes three to four cars and each set stays aloof from rest of the action.

What we have observed this season is that, the first five cars are usually a lap ahead of rest of the field. Hence in Monaco, this situation could get a lot worse. The front runners will have to cross several back markers in the narrow track width and hence accidents are bound to happen. Hence we can expect the safety car to interrupt the race a few times. Some believe it might be a wet race, if so then the action will be doubled.

The qualifying will be very crucial, and the driver grabbing pole position has high chances of finishing first. McLaren and Hamilton head to the race as favourites, but with rise of Ferrari and Williams the situation could change.

Off track | Glamour and Charisma

While the engineers and drivers are busy discussing the car settings and strategies, the rest of Monaco are in a different mode. The entire city switches into festive mood.

More than the action on track, the guests and spectators are treated to the most spectacular parties in the world. Parties on Friday, on Saturday and on Sunday gives them an once in a lifetime experience.

Every hotels and yachts lined up along the harbour, host their unique late night parties that stretch till early mornings.

The amber lounge charity fashion shows are attended some of most esteemed guests from around the globe. The guests may give the race a miss, but they never fail to turn-up at the parties.