This weekend, F1 takes to the streets of the idyllic Principality of Monaco for the 80th running of the iconic Monaco Grand Prix. Steeped in history and prestige, Monaco represents a jewel in motorsport’s crown and a standout event on the calendar for any driver. Here’s everything you need to know from an OP perspective ahead of such a special street race.

• Oscar has happy Monte Carlo memories after securing three points-scoring finishes and back-to-back podiums around Monaco during his 2021 F2 Championship-winning season
• He also took on the fabled Monaco streets during his 2018 and 2019 Formula Renualt Eurocup campaigns and attended last year’s event as part of his reserve driver role
• 2023 will be just the second time in the history of the Monaco GP that Formula 1 cars will take to the track on Friday, when racing used to be paused to mark the Ascension Day holiday
• The 3.337km Circuit de Monaco is the shortest F1 track of the year and features 19 corners (eight left-handed, 11 right-handed) including the slowest corner on the F1 calendar at Fairmont Hairpin (approximately 30mph)
• Such is its heritage, Monaco is one of only four circuits that featured on the original F1 calendar back in 1950 alongside Silverstone, Monza and Spa
• The Monaco Grand Prix represents one third of motorsport’s Triple Crown alongside the Indy 500 and the 24 hours of Le Mans
• Owing to its layout and low-speed configuration, the 260km grand prix race distance in Monaco is shorter than the standard 305km F1 minimum race distance elsewhere

On Imola…

“My first thoughts remain with those affected in the Emilia-Romagna region. I sincerely hope that people can stay safe and the situation improves as soon as possible.

I would also like to mention all the emergency service workers who are bravely helping those who require assistance.”

On racing around Monaco…

“Monaco is one of the most historic and unique circuits in the world so I can’t wait to take to track. It’s a race that I watched as a kid growing up and a challenge for a racer that you don’t get anywhere else.

It’s a proper street circuit so there is very little margin for error, and it requires a lot of concentration. There can also be a lot of moving variables like strategy and the weather, so the circuit always keeps you on your toes. I’m looking forward to it.”

On the atmosphere in the Principality…

“I’ve been lucky to drive around Monaco in F2 and before that in Formula Renault so I know the excitement that spreads around the circuit. It’s a race that a lot of people flock to and one that attracts plenty of famous names.

It’s obviously an intimate old-school venue and that all adds to the magic and history of the place.”

On a special helmet design…

“It’s special to be making my F1 debut in Monaco but it’s doubly special to be able to drive a car that is a nod to the team’s Triple Crown achievements.

I’ve seen and watched awesome clips from Johnny Rutherford’s 1974 Indy 500 win in papaya, Alain Prost’s dramatic win around Monte Carlo in 1984 and the famous 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans win at the Circuit de La Sarthe.

I’ve got a special helmet design this weekend in keeping with team’s awesome livery which I hope the fans like.”