Casino Royale
We looks forward to the latest instalment of the most glamorous motor race in the world
retain its place as the jewel of motor racing. T e race, which this year falls on 26th May, is arguably the most prestigious and, without doubt, the most glamorous in the world. Crammed into the affl uent streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamin, in a tiny, densely populated principality on the French Riviera, it would appear the most ill-fi tting of venues for a premier motor race, for drivers and spectators alike. And yet the circuit’s physical restrictions don’t act as a burden to the event, they only serve to enhance it. T e circuit, which has only seen minor
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alterations since its fi rst use in 1929, famously features a tunnel, which leaves drivers to contend with a sudden contrast between darkness and bright Mediterranean sunshine, and some of the tightest bends and corners in motor racing. T ey face the perils of being
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hough the powers that be in Formula 1 may strive to introduce the sport to new markets, the Monaco Grand Prix will forever
sandwiched between a harbour on one side and solid buildings on the other, reverberating the booming noise of the engines to create an unforgettable cacophony. Spread over 78 laps, it is the ultimate test of a driver’s ability. It is the title they treasure above all the others and yet, ironically, the winners of the Monaco Grand Prix will often not go on to win the driver’s championship. Owing to its uniqueness, the race is about as predictable as the Grand National. Perhaps fi ttingly, Ayrton Senna, one of the sport’s most iconic protagonists, holds the record for
“
...it is the ultimate test of a driver’s ability”
the most Monaco Grand Prix victories, with six. Five were claimed in consecutive years. Like a true maverick, it is almost as if he was preserving his best for the most prestigious of races. With fi ve victories, Graham Hill is the
most successful British Formula 1 driver on this circuit. Current racing stars such as Jenson Button
and Lewis Hamilton now call Monaco home, just like countless other drivers that preceded them. T is is not simply to acquire familiarity with the circuit. Monaco is something of a Mecca for international playboys, with a cost for riotous living only an F1 salary could satisfy.
As enthralling as the race is, sporting endeavour is but one aspect of this lavish spectacle. T e Monaco Grand Prix is one of the hottest tickets in town. Royalty and celebrities alike descend on the principality to share the occasion with Monaco’s well-heeled residents in the most decadent sun-drenched surroundings. T e wealthy and glamorous oversee the action from the comfort of their multi-million pound super yachts, moored at the harbour. Moneyed spectators may also choose to view the race from the balconies and terraces of the many fi ve-star hotels, or
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