24/05/2011
NEWS STORY
The FIA Formula 1 World Championship makes its most glamorous stop in Monaco for one of the most prestigious races on the calendar. Technical excellence, precision driving and bravery are all key in order to have a good weekend in the Principality. Brakes are worked very hard in the Circuit de Monaco and overtaking is almost impossible meaning that qualifying plays a vital role in the outcome of the race. Tyre strategy will also have a big say in the race since aero efficiency isn't as crucial in Monaco as in other places. Pirelli will introduce its softest range of tyres for this race, the PZero Red Supersofts which will add a new factor to the difficulty of the race.
Colin Kolles, Hispania Racing Team Principal: "The Monaco Grand Prix is the biggest race in Formula 1. Hopefully we will have a better weekend than in Barcelona, even though we proved there that we have made progress. In fact we were ahead of others fighting with the Virgins but unfortunately we were unable to finish the job off. In Monaco we're looking to confirm this progress. We are also hoping for some clarification regarding the diffusers, so we will wait and see how that turns out."
Narain Karthikeyan: "Every Formula 1 race is special but Monaco somehow manages to surpass even that. Not just the race itself, but everything surrounding it is just fantastic. It is definitely the jewel in the F1 crown. I'll never forget the last few laps in 1992 when Senna beat Mansell."
"I've only raced here once, in 2005, so I have a lot of catching up to do and street circuits are always a tough challenge. It is a circuit where history is ingrained in every single metre of track. Personally, my favourite part is the fast left handed Tabac corner leading into the swimming pool complex. As a driver, I have to ensure that I don't make any mistakes and concentrate 100% for the entire duration of the weekend.
"Once we do some running on Thursday and are able to assess all the new variables on the car, especially with the new tyres, only then will we be able to decide which kind of strategy will be the optimum for the race on Sunday."
Vitantonio Liuzzi: "I love Monaco, it's one of the greatest races in motorsport as you drive between the rails and really need to be fearless. It's the most glamorous race, an amazing weekend for everyone, it truly is something spectacular. Last year was my best race there when I finished 8th after having a great qualifying session. It's a date you look forward to on the calendar because it's a special track, not as easy as a normal circuit, a very demanding place."
To experience the Circuit de Monaco in more detail click here