Honda star
Jenson Button has described the glamorous, 78-lap Monaco Grand Prix as one of the most demanding and exhausting experiences of the Formula 1 season – but also, should you manage to master it, one of the most rewarding.
The British ace has only once finished inside the points around the winding, tortuous streets of the Principality, but that was in second place with BAR-Honda back in 2004, one year on from his huge practice shunt exiting the tunnel that had forced him to miss the race. He has invariably been quick there, and is clearly approaching the 2008 event with a good deal of enthusiasm.
“Monaco is a truly special race weekend,” the 28-year-old underlined, acknowledging the event as a unique test of man and machine. “It's completely different from any other venue on the calendar, although it will be interesting to see how the street circuits in Valencia and Singapore compare later this year.
“The Monaco Grand Prix means a great deal to me as it is one of my three home races of the year, along with
Silverstone and Japan. However, being a resident of Monaco is of no benefit over the race weekend as the Principality is completely transformed!
“It's unbelievably busy and getting around can be just impossible, but what I love about Monaco is that it is a fantastic race for the fans, who can get so close to the action and noise of
Formula 1.
“The whole lap at Monaco is just a non-stop challenge, and you have to maintain absolute focus and concentration over every single one of the 78 laps of the race.
“The absolute key to a really quick lap is to not let the barriers intimidate you, as this is a circuit that rewards precision. Having a good qualifying session and getting the best grid position possible is so important to a successful weekend. Passing is very difficult during the race, so you need to make a good start and do your overtaking off the line where possible.”
