Grand Prix de Monaco Historique: When Legends Race Again Through Monaco

There are few places in the world where motorsport history is as alive as in Monaco. Every two years, a few weeks before the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the streets of the principality fill with racing cars that made history: 1950s Maseratis, 1960s Lotuses and Coopers, Formula 1 cars of the ’70s and ’80s. It is not a show. It is a race.

A race since 1997

The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is organised by the Automobile Club de Monaco, the same body that runs the Formula 1 Grand Prix. It was first held in 1997 and has been repeated every two years since. It runs on the same legendary circuit through the streets of the city, with the climb to the Casino, the hairpin, the tunnel and the run along the harbour.

The cars are divided into series according to era and type: from pre-war racing cars to Formula 1 cars of the 1970s and 1980s, as well as 1950s sports racing cars. Each series has its own practice, qualifying and race.

The 2024 edition

The 14th edition took place from 10 to 12 May 2024. As always, it brought together hundreds of historic racing cars from around the world, with drivers ranging from owners and collectors to former professionals. For spectators, it is a rare chance to hear and see these cars driven at their limits, rather than parked in a museum.

Why it is worth seeing

The best thing about the Historique is the atmosphere. The paddock is more accessible than at Formula 1, spectators can watch mechanics up close working on cars sixty and seventy years old, and the sound of old naturally aspirated engines echoing between the buildings is unforgettable. Tickets are also far cheaper than for the Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Because the race is held every two years, the next edition after 2024 is in 2026. If you love classic racing cars, put it on your list. Few spectacles in the world combine history, speed and one of motorsport’s most spectacular settings so beautifully.

P.Kefalas