JackLeslieF1 Blog

23 May 2013

2013 Monaco Grand Prix Weekend Review

Glitz, glamour and glory. Three words that are used far too often when describing the Monaco Grand Prix, but three words that perfectly fit the iconic event.

The Circuit de Monaco is one that requires commitment, confidence and coordination of the highest level. The 78 lap race is most definitely a challenge and there is always an excitable buzz around the race weekend. The usual mix-up of the schedule, practice on Thursday and a rest-day on Friday, and the stunning location make it the most unique race of the season amongst so many other things.

2013 Monaco Grand Prix, Wednesday Snap Shot

Only in Monaco. Thursday witnesses the start of the on track action in the principality as Friday is a "rest day" for the teams and it frees up the public roads for use.

So that brings all the usual Thursday action around the paddock and pit lane forward, hence why for one year only we have a special "Wednesday Snap Shot." As it's the most prestigious race on the calendar, even busier schedules are coupled with stunning back drops and plenty of media attention.

JLF1 Blog & Grand Prix Merchandise 250,000 View Competition

Hitting 250,000 hits is something that I never thought would happen. That’s why, to celebrate http://jackleslief1.blogspot.com reaching that very milestone, I’m hosting a competition to say thank you for the support, for visiting the site and reading my work. Hopefully long may it continue!

The competition is in partnership with Grand Prix Merchandise, a long-time partner of the blog who stock some of the latest Formula 1 team merchandise at very respectable prices. As the Formula 1 2013 season continues in fine fashion and the British Grand Prix closes in, the JLF1 Blog and GPM have joined forces to host a very special competition.

The Prize? None other than the official 2013 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team Cap that is currently retailing at £27.95. Octane Photographic will also give the winner a printed A3 picture of their favourite F1 driver. There is no question to answer, just go to the competition page (linked here) and fill in the contact form. All terms & conditions and more information on the competition can also be found there. It will be open from Tuesday 21st May to Tuesday 28th May.

Pic Hopeful of Strong Showing In-front of French Fans

With no French Grand Prix and four of their drivers on the Formula 1 grid, it's no wonder that the French fans flock to Monaco to watch their heroes in action.

The principality is the closest race to France and Caterham driver Charles Pic is hopeful that the team can put on a good showing for the visiting fans.

2013 Monaco Grand Prix Preview

Monaco. One of the most popular races on the Formula 1 calendar, if not the most popular. It's unique glamour, glitz and stunning backdrop make it the most talked about the highly anticipated race on the calendar.

The Circuit de Monaco is not one for the faint-hearted. You have to be 100% committed, you need full concentration and control to succeed around the twisty streets of the principality. That's why its often one of the most dramatic weekends of the season.

McLaren to Mercedes Switch Confirmed for Paddy Lowe

Mercedes continue to strengthen their senior management with the confirmation that Paddy Lowe will join the team in June.

Lowe, who previously held the technical director role at McLaren, was given early release from his contract and will join Ross Brawn and Toto Wolff at the Mercedes team as their Executive Director (Technical).

Maldonado: From Hero to Zero in Just Two Weeks

12 months ago, Williams F1 Team driver Pastor Maldonado was soaring on a high. He was a hero back home in Venezuela after he crossed the line at the Circuit de Catalunya to register his first, and so far only, Formula 1 victory.

It was a stunning and controlled drive at the 2012 Spanish Grand Prix which proved many critics wrong. However the previously described "erratic" and inconsistent Pastor of old returned just two weeks later at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Button Expecting "Small Steps" Forward in Monaco

Jenson Button has said that he expects McLaren to make "small steps" forward during next weekend's Monaco Grand Prix.

The Brit is confident that they can move forward, but he has downplayed the thought of jumping higher up the order. He had his worst qualifying performance of the season in Spain, lining up 14th on the grid, but he was happy with his race pace and the strategy call by the team.

Hulkenberg Confident Sauber can Return to Form

Nico Hulkenberg has shared his confidence that the Sauber F1 Team can put on a strong showing at the next race weekend in Monaco.

So far in 2013, the switch to Sauber has proved underwhelming and the C32 has proved to be unable to challenge at the front of the midfield pack like his former team Force India are doing. However he feels that the dynamics of the tight, twisty Monaco circuit and the return of the soft tyre compound can see them return to form.

Honda Announce Rekindling of McLaren Partnership

It had been rumoured for some time and earlier in the week; reports suggested it would be a Thursday announced. That day arrived and predictions were correct as it was announced that Honda would return to Formula 1 in 2015 as the official engine supplier for McLaren.

The Japanese manufacturer has not been active in the sport since 2008. After two unsuccessful years they decided to pull the plug on the operation, handing ownership over to 2009 champions Brawn GP in a last minute deal. Now their former Brackley base houses the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team.