Monaco Grand Prix

The iconic race through the streets of Monte Carlo first began in 1929 when cigarette manufacturer Antony Noghes organized a race with the Automobile Club de Monaco.

He was a friend of the House of Grimaldi, the ruling house of Monaco. The race is held in the Monte Carlo neighborhood, hence why it’s often referred to as “Monte Carlo”.

Though it’s one of the oldest tracks on the F1 calendar, the Circuit de Monaco has not changed much since the first official Formula 1 race in 1950.

The biggest changes came in the 1970s: a chicane was moved in 1972, the swimming pool section of corners was added in 1973, and the Sainte Devote and Anthony Noghes curves were tightened in 1976.

Later changes include the addition of the Nouvelle Chicane in 1986, the swimming pool section was tightened in 2003, and in 2015 the Tabac corner moved slightly.

Since 1950, the Monaco Grand Prix has happened every year, with exceptions in 1951, 1953, 1954, and 2020. A win at the Circuit de Monaco is one of the most sought-after on the calendar.

Two-time world champion Graham Hill had the nickname “Mr. Monaco” thanks to his five wins in the 1960s. Overall, three-time champion Ayrton Senna has the record for most F1 race wins at the Monaco Grand Prix with six.