FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2012 (Monte Carlo) May 27

Circuit length: 3.340km
Race distance: 260.520km
Laps: 78

The jewel in the crown of Formula 1, the Monaco Grand Prix around the streets of Monte Carlo is the most charismatic venue on the F1 calendar, with a rich history stretching back to the early days of the sport. The race has been on the calendar since its debut in 1950 and is the one Grand Prix that all the drivers want to win above all. Over the years, the track layout itself has changed little, with the tunnel a real signature of the circuit. But organisers have recently built a permanent pit complex and created more run off areas. The sequence of corners from Massenet, at the crest of the hill after the steep climb to Casino Square is fast and blind on entry and is one of the most spectacular places to watch a Formula 1 car. It’s very hard to overtake at Monaco, so qualifying at the front and good race strategy are critical.