The streets of Monaco were silent last year as COVID-19 meant that the running of the Monaco E-Prix, like so many things, had to be cancelled. But this weekend, the 12 teams and 24 drivers return to what is considered the most famous street circuit in the world, to do battle against one of the most iconic backdrops in motorsport. 

“To see Formula E race around the longer version of the most historic racing circuit in the world will mark another great milestone for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship," says Alberto Longo, Chief Championship Officer, Formula E. "In many ways, this circuit is made for Formula E - it’s a fast and narrow street circuit which will see plenty of opportunities for overtaking and will really test driver’s energy management with sharp inclines and high-speed sections.

"The FIA and the ACM are allowing us to race around corners steeped in motorsport tradition and we are honoured that Formula E will be creating its own history on May 8.”

For Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler’s Lucas di Grassi, Monaco is both the place he has called home for many years and his favourite circuit to race on. It has proved a happy hunting ground for di Grassi in the past, the former Formula world champion having scored two podium finishes from the three previous races there on the shorter track layout.

“For me, it’s the race that I am looking forward to the most,” say the most successful Formula E driver.

“With the long version of the circuit, we now drive past all of the iconic places. It will be a great experience for us as racing drivers and the scenes will also be fantastic for all of the spectators watching on TV. To race near my home, where I go jogging or shopping every day, is very special.” 

For teammate René Rast too, Monaco is a very special place both for its great motorsport history and for past successes he has enjoyed there most notably in Porsche Supercup in the past.
Obviously famed as a venue for Formula One, the circuit, which has been newly homologated by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) for Formula E is 3.320 kilometres long and differs from the Formula One version only in the curb placement at the first corner. Unlike the first three race weekends of the current season, only one race will be held this weekend, before the returning to the double-header format for the remaining four race weekends in Mexico, New York, London and Berlin. 

Racing will get underway at midnight this Saturday night AEST, and the international broadcasters, including broadcast schedules, can be found online at the official Formula E website.