The event
A race on the streets of Monte Carlo has taken place since 1929, and the event has been part of the Formula One calendar since its inception in 1950. While the track offers virtually no overtaking opportunities, the drivers love the place for the challenge it brings. With barriers all around the circuit, any mistake is like to punished with a damaged car and their race almost certainly being over.
Classic races
1982 Perhaps memorable for being the race that no one appeared to want to win. In the final three laps five drivers, Alain Prost, Riccardo Patrese, Didier Pironi, Andrea de Cesaris and Derek Daly, all had moments in front, but spins, mechanical problems, lack of fuel and crashes hit all their hopes. In chaotic scenes, it was finally Patrese, in a damaged Brabham, who recovered to win.
1996 If 1982 was the race that no one wanted to win, this was the race no one wanted to finish. Of 21 cars that started the race, only three were classified, as damp conditions caused several incidents. Olivier Panis survived the carnage to come through from 14th place on the grid in his Ligier to claim what would be the only grand prix victory of his career. David Coulthard and The National's columnist Johhny Herbert were the other two finishers.
2008 Some times you need luck to win in Monte Carlo and Lewis Hamilton had that in his lone victory thus far at the venue. He slid wide early in the race, hit the barriers and gave himself a right-rear puncture. He was lucky to be close to the pitlane, and he also refuelled, which ended up putting him on the ideal pit strategy to win the race.
Past winners
2010 M. Webber, Red Bull
2009 J. Button, Brawn GP
2008 L.Hamilton, McLaren
2007 F. Alonso, McLaren
2006 F. Alonso, Renault
2005 K.Raikkonen, McLaren
2004 J.Trulli, Renault
2003 J.Montoya, Williams
2002 D.Coulthard, McLaren
2001 M. Schumacher, Ferrari
2000 D.Coulthard, McLaren
