(01)History
History of the Monaco Grand Prix
One of the oldest and most prestigious motor races in the world, raced through the streets of Monte-Carlo for nearly a century — the historic backdrop every Monaco Grand Prix terrace sits within today.
Origins
The first Monaco Grand Prix took place in 1929, on the initiative of Antony Noghès and with the support of Prince Louis II. The race has been held in the streets of Monte-Carlo from the very beginning.
Joining the world championship
The Monaco Grand Prix joined the Formula 1 world championship at its inception in 1950, making it one of the few races to have featured on the calendar since the sport began.
The circuit
The Monaco circuit is a temporary street track around 3.337 km long, laid out through the streets of Monte-Carlo. The standard race distance is 78 laps, roughly 260 km.
A race like no other
Its narrow track, lack of run-off areas and urban setting make it one of the most demanding races on the calendar for drivers, and one of the most sought-after by spectators for its exceptional setting.
Experiencing this historic circuit from a terrace
Since the layout has changed little since its origins, a Monaco Grand Prix terrace today looks out over the same historic circuit the drivers of the earliest editions raced on — with the comfort and service added on top.
Photos from the 2026 edition
