F1 in Monaco: Finally, the cars were flat-out in qualifying

Formula 1 held its annual race on the streets of Monte Carlo this past weekend. The event predates the sport—the first Monaco Grand Prix was held in 1929 on a layout that isn’t too different from the one used today. Over the years, the buildings have changed, crash barriers appeared, the swimming pool section grew, and the cars eventually got too big and fast to race each other properly on the tight confines of a circuit one world champion described as “riding a bicycle in your living room.” Nestled by the Mediterranean and surrounded by super yachts, Monaco remains the sport’s most famous and glamorous race, and after their home Grands Prix it’s the one many drivers most want to win.

Qualifying on Saturday mattered more than usual because overtaking here is virtually impossible, and everyone expected pole to go to one of the two Ferraris. For the first time this season the cars were completely flat-out in qualifying; with no long straights and plenty of braking zones, the cars were not energy-limited.

Monaco, Monte Carlo

monaco, monte carlo, formula 1, qualifying, pole position, ferrari, overtaking, street circuit, swimming pool, super yachts