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Following the resounding success of the previous edition, the Organizing and Selection Committee of the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM) has decided to retain the same 8 series and classes unchanged for 2024. The event will culminate in tributes and anniversaries in the form of real races in the authentic and majestic setting of the Principality’s circuit. This 14th edition of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is set to turn several pages in motor racing history. Idyllic flashback, by decade since 1924, on cars and drivers who will be in the spotlight in 2024!
It is in Lyon that the first memories go back to, 100 years ago (1924), with the unveiling of the iconic Bugatti 35, the compressor version of which won the first two Monaco Grand Prix in 1929 and 1930. Besides, in 1984, the Automobile Club de Monaco organized a Bugatti race to celebrate the 35’s 60th anniversary.
In 1934, the Mercedes single-seaters that had won the last three pre-war Monaco Grand Prix, in 1935, 1936 and 1937, appeared on the grid. Also appearing on the racetrack 90 years ago was ERA, which won the first Prince Rainier Cup in 1936, monopolizing the podium. ERA was again on the starting grid in 1950 for the 1st Monaco Grand Prix, part of the brand-new Formula 1 World Championship.
Later in 1954, that is to say 70 years ago, Mercedes was still at the top of the bill, with the appearance of the W196, which crushed the Grand Prix scene in 1954 and 1955, Juan-Manuel Fangio winning World Championship titles in the same two years. The unveiling of the Maserati 250F also left no one indifferent. Italian cars were present in Monaco from 1955 to 1959, winning twice: in 1956 thanks to Juan-Manuel Fangio, and in 1957 with Stirling Moss at the wheel.
Let’s go back to 1964 (60 years ago), when John Surtees, already a multiple Moto World Champion, also became one in Formula 1 with Ferrari. The Englishman was always present at the start of Monaco Grand Prix from 1960 to 1971, making 12 appearances. Later, Surtees became a full-fledged brand and manufacturer in the discipline, his single-seaters taking part in Monaco Grand Prix between 1971 and 1978. Some of them are among the entries this year!
Then, in 1974, the short-lived Hesketh brand got involved in the major discipline. It was then 50 years ago that the young and flamboyant Lord Thomas Alexander Fermor-Hesketh along with his driver James Hunt, gave F1 a glamorous image in keeping with that of the Principality. It was also the year of the revelation of engineer Harvey Postlethwaite, who not only designed the first Hesketh, but also the Wolf WR1, which won three Grands Prix in its very first season in 1977. Including the Monaco Grand Prix with the experienced Jody Scheckter at the wheel.
It was finally 40 years ago, in 1984, that Ayrton Senna‘s already proven talent, in his modest Toleman Hart, shone through when he took 2nd place, behind Alain Prost, at the 5th Grand Prix of his career, contested in torrential rain in Monaco…
The 14th Historic Grand Prix promises to be a weekend of celebration and passion for competitors and spectators alike. We look forward to a weekend of classic cars, history, and acceleration.
Monaco, March 21st, 2024
