Monaco Grand Prix

In the world of major sporting events, nothing can compare to the sheer elegance, glamour and excitement that is arguably Formula One's most prestigious race - the Grand Prix of Monaco.

The Monaco track dates back to 1929 and to this day are still one of only two remaining street courses on the Formula One schedule. The course allows spectators to experience the cars at close range with engines screaming, brakes glowing, and tires smoking, as the drivers demonstrate their unrivalled skills.

The Monaco Grand Prix is renowned as one of the world's best sporting events and attracts thousands of fans including the rich and famous who flock to the Principality to get a taste of all the action and glamour.

Despite the awkward working conditions for the teams, and the unforgiving nature of the Monaco track, the Monaco Grand Prix is still seen as a jewel in the crown of the Formula One World Championship racing.

The Monaco circuit twists and turns through the narrow streets of Monte Carlo and along the harbour front.

Essentially the track layout has not changed since 1929, but in 1973 the new ‘Piscine' section was added around the seafront swimming pool, and three chicanes have also been added over the years.

The Monaco Grand Prix track is renowned for its difficulty and has provided some of the most memorable races in Grand Prix history.

However the demanding nature of the track imposes enormous strain on drivers and cars. This was never more evident than in 1996 when only three cars actually managed to finish the race.

Off track

Monaco basks between the captivating French Alps and the vast Mediterranean Sea and boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year with mild temperatures for the remainder.

This and the unadulterated wealth on display throughout the tiny country, means Monte Carlo is a magnet for tourists, and, in particular, a favourite holiday spot for the rich and famous.

But, as well as the good weather and stunning location, Monte Carlo has much more to offer the visitor, including a location steeped in history, outstanding cuisine, a beautiful harbour and, of course, exciting nightlife.

The city has several cultural attractions, such as the Monaco Cathedral and the Prince's Palace, several gardens, and other attractions centered on the country's famous Royal Family, such as an exhibition of HSH Prince of Monaco's private collection of classic cars.

The most obvious and most popular of all the Royal attractions is the Palais du Prince.

Established in the 13th century, Monaco's royal palace has been the residence of the ruling Grimaldi family ever since.

Another popular tourist attraction and one well worth a visit, is Monaco's Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium which was opened by Prince Albert I in 1910 to house his personal collection of marine life, models of the prince's laboratory ships and other crafts made from marine products.

Formula fun
Eighteen cities, nine months, 26 teams, 11 drivers, but just one winner - this is life in the fast lane.

Australian Grand Prix
The Formula One Australian Grand Prix is frequently presented with the award for best organised event by the FIA, which means that both on and off the track - this is an event not to be missed.

Malaysian Grand Prix
The Malaysian Grand Prix may not have been part of the Formula One circuit for long, but Kuala Lumpur boasts a track worthy of hosting both the F1 grand Prix and FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix and one which really raises the standards for all other circuits.

Bahrain Grand Prix
The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is arguably the biggest sporting occasion in the Middle East.

Spanish Grand Prix
Set in the vibrant Barcelona the Spanish Grand Prix is one of the most exciting races in the F1 circuit.

Turkish Grand Prix
The Istanbul Racing Circuit is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is just a stone's throw away from the newly constructed Sabiha Gokcen Istanbul Airport.

Canadian Grand Prix
With the combination of the fantastic Gilles Villeneuve track and its exceptional nightlife, Montreal has become an annual trip for many motor lovers from all over the world.

French Grand Prix
There is something very special about the French Grand Prix in Magny Cours.

British Grand Prix
The very first Formula One Grand Prix took place at Silverstone in 1948 on a track marked out with straw bales and large oil drums.

German Grand Prix
Traditionally the German Grand Prix was all about raw horsepower. It was a flat-out blast around a 4.2 mile tree-lined track before it raged into the stadium section that houses the thousands of fans.

Hungarian Grand Prix
The Hungaroring circuit is 19km from the centre of Budapest, alongside the M3 motorway at the border of the village, Mogyoród.

European Grand Prix
Set along the stunning Mediterranean coast in Spain's third largest city, Valencia, the European Grand Prix is expected to be nothing short of phenomenal.

Belgian Grand Prix
The Belgian Grand Prix is favourite track amongst many drivers.

Italian Grand Prix
For passionate Formula One fans the world over, the Italian Grand Prix is one not to be missed. Few stops along the Formula One route can rival that of Italy's celebrated Grand Prix.

Singapore Grand Prix
There is much anticipation about the Singapore Grand Prix. Not only is it the newest addition to the Formula One calendar, but it is Formula One's first ever night race.

Japanese Grand Prix
Because of the exciting and challenging layout of Fuji Speedway Circuit the Japanese Grand Prix is one of the most-loved F1 events of the season.

Chinese Grand Prix
The Chinese Grand Prix circuit is like no other, shaped like a letter or character from the Shang (ancient Chinese alphabet), it combines sweeping curves and long straights leading onto hairpin corners, succeeded in making overtaking opportunities possible.

Brazilian Grand Prix
Home to so many heroes of Formula One racing there is something very special about the Brazilian Grand Prix - and it's not just that it's the final race on the annual calendar.

READERS' COMMENTS

MORE FROM ARABIANBUSINESS.COM