Questions & answers about the Monaco Grand Prix

What makes Monaco so special? Basically everything. At 3,337 kilometers, the course is the shortest on the calendar. 19 curves, constant stress and guardrails every centimeter apart. A journey against reason, a journey through time. Plus the flair: the Côte d'Azur, the high-rise buildings in the rocky landscape, the royal family, the jet set, expensive yachts, flashy cars.

Wants to challenge Hamilton for victory: Max Verstappen © APA/afp / EMILIO MORENATTI

How great are World Cup challenger Max Verstappen's chances of winning? The record speaks against him: the 23-year-old Dutchman hasn't even made it onto the podium in the Red Bull in Monte Carlo so far. What speaks for him is that his car shouldn't be a hindrance to victory on the narrow and slow course compared to the Mercedes with the more powerful engine. On the contrary: Known and praised for its aerodynamics, Red Bull is always one of the candidates for victory on the course. Another flaw: Verstappen can't afford to make any mistakes on this route, not even the smallest one. Hamilton has proven often enough that he is getting closer and closer to perfection, most recently at the race in Spain. Three victories in Monaco also speak for him.

What's important in Monaco? Starting row one is a must. Since 2000, a driver from the front line has won 16 times. The remaining four winners had at least made it to third starting position. Clear case: If you want to be at the front of the race after 78 laps - as long as nothing completely surprising happens - you have to be among the fastest in the one attempt on Saturday over the 3,337 kilometers.

What dangers lurk in Monaco? Many. The drivers can't afford to make mistakes; if so, the tow crane usually has to be called in and the safety car has to come out. This also means, and especially in the qualification: Anyone who gambles can really gamble away. Anyone who waited to do a quick lap might not get a chance anymore.

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Questions & answers about the Monaco Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton doesn't have to go far. Neither does Max Verstappen. Both live in Monte Carlo, like some of their Formula 1 colleagues. This weekend the premier class of motorsport is once again visiting the Principality. It's more than race number five of the season, it's the ultimate classic.

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