About Circuit de Monaco
The Circuit de Monaco stands as one of the most iconic racing venues in motorsport history. This temporary street circuit runs through the narrow streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamine, wrapping around Monaco's famous harbor. Since 1929, drivers have tested their skills on this demanding track, which transforms everyday city roads into a high-speed racing circuit. The track hosts the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, Formula E Monaco ePrix, and the Historic Grand Prix of Monaco, attracting racing enthusiasts from across the globe.
Technical Specifications and Track Layout
The circuit measures 3.337 kilometers (2.074 miles) in length and features 19 turns. The Formula One race runs for 78 laps, covering a total distance of 260.52 kilometers. The track presents extreme challenges with its narrow width, elevation changes, and tight corners. Drivers face the slowest corner in Formula 1 at the Fairmont Hairpin, where speeds drop to just 48 km/h (30 mph). In stark contrast, the kink inside the tunnel allows speeds up to 260 km/h (160 mph). The pit lane extends 480 meters, and a typical pit stop costs drivers approximately 19 seconds.
Key Circuit Features
Several corners have achieved legendary status among racing fans. Sainte-Dévote marks the first corner after the start line, a tight right-hand turn where many accidents occur. Casino Square provides a high-speed section that tests driver courage. The tunnel creates a unique challenge as drivers adjust to rapid light changes while maintaining high speeds. The Swimming Pool complex features a chicane section beside the harbor, demanding precision and rhythm. La Rascasse presents a challenging right-hand hairpin, and the Fairmont Hairpin (previously called the Loews Hairpin) remains the slowest corner on any Formula 1 circuit. The track features only one DRS zone on the pit straight from Antony Noghès to Sainte-Dévote.
Racing History and Records
Antony Noghès organized the first Monaco Grand Prix in 1929. William Grover-Williams won that inaugural race on April 14, 1929, driving a Bugatti. The circuit joined the Formula One World Championship at its inception in 1950 and has remained on the calendar continuously since 1955. Only four local drivers have won races at Monaco: Louis Chiron (1931), Stefano Coletti (2013 GP2 Series), Stéphane Richelmi (2014 GP2 Series), and Charles Leclerc (2024 Formula One). Ayrton Senna holds the record for most Formula One victories at Monaco with six wins. The Monaco Grand Prix forms one-third of the prestigious Triple Crown of Motorsport. Lando Norris set the current lap record of 1:09.954 in 2025.
Unique Characteristics
The circuit requires six weeks to construct and three weeks to dismantle. Monaco holds its practice sessions on Thursday instead of Friday, opening the roads to regular traffic on Friday. The event does not feature a traditional podium ceremony; winners celebrate on the steps of the royal box instead. Overtaking proves extremely difficult due to the narrow track width, making qualifying position critical for race success. The track configuration follows Monaco's road system, evolving as the city develops. This connection between racing circuit and public roads creates a unique blend of everyday urban life and elite motorsport competition.
