Many of you will have seen Daniel Ricciardo clinch pole position for today’s Monaco Grand Prix. This was expected. What we did not expect was that his team mate Max Verstappen would stuff the Red Bull into the barrier two hours before qualifying. The British lads who work for the team are probably the finest in the World but even they could not repair Max’s car in time. Of course Max’s loss is our gain, starting from last he will have to produce a miracle to get on the podium.
F1 is full of young, hungry drivers such Leclerc and Ocon and they will be fighting their own race so letting Max pass is the last thing on their minds.
The start will be interesting because as you all know the first corner at St Devote has been tricky at the best of times so with three tigers from three different teams-Ricciardo, Vettel and Hamilton one of them could exit after a few hundred yards and seek solace as St Devote is under normal circumstances a beautiful church.
Monaco is not completely full, probably because it is very expensive to be here unless you are a sponsor or a sponsor’s guest. Or get a special rate at a hotel after 35 years such as your reporter.
The new owners are trying very hard and I must say that their TV coverage, especially the instant replays are quite brilliant.
Would go as far as to say that unless you have plans before and after the Monaco GP-maybe a trip to the Ferrari factory- staying at home with a cold beer is a lot less hassle. And free.
So far there have been three highlights for me. One, the sight of Keke Rosberg in his championship winning Williams from 1982 alongside his son Nico in his winning Mercedes from 2016. To the best of my knowledge this is a first and it was quite magnificent.
I know that both Hills-Graham and Damon were also World Champions but unfortunately Graham was not alive when Damon clinched the title.
My other highlight was of course my annual visit to the Monte Carlo Country Club for a game of tennis. Has to be the most beautiful location anywhere in the World.
I have been driving a Maserati for the last few days and the trip to the Monte Carlo golf club was very special indeed. Just to walk a few holes with playing friends. Stunning location with the first 9 overlooking the Med And the second the mountains. It is of course inside France, Monaco are just leasing it. Don’t blame them. In case you do decide to fly over next year and you are a golfer don’t miss it just make sure you reserve in advance. The course is special, the ambiance is unique and it is just half an hour from Monaco.
So enjoy the race tomorrow, this is THE one everybody wants to win because of the tremendous world-wide interest. Baku? Bahrain? Hands up all those who could name the winners.
Don’t miss the start or if you are in California at least make sure the alarm clock is set.
Andrew Frankl
Monaco
GP Editor-FORZA
STOP PRESS! Anderson Cooper is here for 60 minutes. Logic dictates that he is here for a reason…Frankly Frankl
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