The Monaco Grand Prix stands as the crown jewel of Formula 1, where skill, nerve, and elegance meet on the tight, twisting streets of Monte Carlo. Here are the ten drivers who mastered this iconic track like no others, ranked from No. 10 to No. 1.
10. Nico Rosberg (Germany)
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Nico Rosberg enjoyed tremendous success at Monaco, winning three consecutive races from 2013 to 2015. His victories showcased consistency and composure, even benefiting from a key strategic mistake by his teammate Lewis Hamilton in 2015. Though his championship came a year later, Rosberg’s Monaco record remains a highlight of his career.
9. Maurice Trintignant (France)
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A true fighter, Maurice Trintignant bounced back from a life-threatening crash in 1948 to win twice at Monaco in the 1950s. Competing in an era when danger loomed at every corner, Trintignant’s bravery and resilience made him one of the principality’s early legends.
Hamilton has won Monaco three times, with his 2019 victory standing out as a masterclass in tire management under pressure. Despite repeated concerns over tire wear, he held off Max Verstappen to seal a crucial win en route to his sixth world title. His poise in tight situations defines his Monte Carlo success.
Niki Lauda ended Ferrari’s two-decade drought in Monaco by winning in 1975 and followed it up with another win in 1976. Competing in one of the most dangerous eras in motorsport, Lauda’s calculated aggression and technical brilliance were key to his triumphs on the unforgiving street circuit.
6. Jackie Stewart (United Kingdom)
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Jackie Stewart’s dominance in 1971, driving for Tyrrell-Ford, was a showcase of precision and finesse. His total of three Monaco victories during a deadly period for drivers earned him widespread respect and admiration. Stewart’s deep understanding of the circuit set him apart.
5. Stirling Moss (United Kingdom)
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Stirling Moss defied the odds in 1961 by winning in a slower Lotus against the faster Ferraris. Known for his daring and flair, Moss was the first to win three Monaco GPs. His performance in 1961 is still considered one of the finest examples of driving brilliance in F1 history.
4. Alain Prost (France)
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Prost won four times in Monte Carlo and was known for his cool, methodical approach. Racing through the intense 1980s rivalry with Senna, he mastered the art of winning without taking unnecessary risks. His blend of strategy and speed proved ideal for Monaco’s tight confines.
With five Monaco wins, Schumacher’s domination was undeniable. His 1997 victory in torrential rain, finishing 53 seconds ahead of second place, remains iconic. He pushed the limits in every race, showing unparalleled determination on one of F1’s most technical tracks.
2. Graham Hill (United Kingdom)
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Dubbed “Mr. Monaco,” Hill won five times between 1963 and 1969. His 1965 victory was especially memorable, as he had to push his car back onto the track after a spin. Hill’s style and resilience made him a fan favorite and a true Monaco specialist.
1. Ayrton Senna (Brazil)
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Ayrton Senna is the undisputed king of Monaco with a record six wins. His performances were a blend of audacity, precision, and genius, especially his unforgettable debut in 1984 and his final win in 1993. Senna’s name is forever etched into the soul of Monte Carlo.
