MONACO'S MARVEL: ENGINEERING WONDERS AND RACING LEGENDS AT THE F1 GRAND PRIX

Initially renowned for its rally, which began in the early 20th century, Monte-Carlo opened up to the idea of hosting track automobile races as the 1930s dawned. With the backing of Prince Louis II, Monaco succeeded in turning the Grand Prix from a dream into reality.

A feat of engineering genius, the challenge of designing a circuit within Monaco’s tiny territory (2.02 km²) seemed daunting, yet Monaco has managed to become the domain of racing royalty for one weekend each year. The most nimble among them is Ayrton Senna, who holds the record for the most victories in the principality with six trophies. The Grand Prix’s prestige, often coinciding with the Cannes Film Festival, draws global celebrities who flock to enjoy the high-speed laps from their yachts moored alongside the track.

While newer generations hungry for spectacle criticize the scarcity of overtaking opportunities on the principality’s circuit, the Monaco GP remains one of the most iconic automobile races. The Grand Prix, along with the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, forms what is known as the “Triple Crown,” awarded to those who achieve the remarkable feat of winning these three distinct races. In history, only Graham Hill has accomplished this, a feat that drivers like Fernando Alonso (a winner at Monaco and Le Mans) have aspired to replicate.

📷: Rainer Schlegelmilch /@yvangrubski / Getty