Just a few weeks before the start of the Monaco Grand Prix, the extravagant microstate is already buzzing with the spirit of Formula 1. Last weekend, the street circuit opened its doors for the Historic GP, a three-day event where the world’s wealthiest can showcase their most prized F1 treasures. Here’s a glimpse into the exclusive fleet.
In one of the first racing classes of the weekend, the Formula 1 cars from the early 1960s were featured. Among them was the Lotus 25, the car with which Jim Clark won the world championship twice. The green and yellow car eventually crossed the finish line first.
Adrian Newey also participated in Monaco. In the racing class for F1 cars from 1966 to 1972, he chose to ride in the Lotus 49. However, he was outpaced by the faster Lotus 72, the car with the famous ‘John Player Special’ color scheme, which finished in first place.
The Grandeur of Historic Formula 1 Cars
The racing cars from 1973 to 1976 are renowned for their massive air intakes above the driver’s head. Despite this, they are beautiful vehicles and a significant part of Formula 1 history. While the Yardley McLaren M23 emerged victorious in this class, the audience also had the pleasure of witnessing Niki Lauda’s Ferrari 312.
Notable Participants in the Race
Another familiar face in the racing class for cars from 1977 to 1980 was McLaren CEO Zak Brown. He opted for the Williams FW07B, the car with which Alan Jones won the world championship.
A Tribute to Ayrton Senna
Of course, much attention was also paid to Ayrton Senna throughout the weekend. Thirty years after his death, his nephew Bruno stepped into the McLaren MP4/5B. Several of Senna’s cars made their appearance during the Historic Monaco Grand Prix, including the kart in which he began his racing career.
