Monaco Grand Prix glitz has stood test of time, but track has not

Monaco might not deliver the most scintillating racing on the Formula One calendar but no sporting event can top Monte Carlo when it comes to the glitz and glamour that is an irresistible magnet for the rich and powerful on Grand Prix weekend.

Yet there is a buzz this season that Monaco could be in for some competition with Las Vegas poised to make a run at the F1 glamour crown.

A Saturday night race down the Las Vegas strip has undeniable appeal and with organisers promising an event packed with A-list surprises, the gauntlet has been thrown down.

But whatever Las Vegas offers on and off the track it is going to take something special to knock Monaco off its pedestal as Formula One's crown jewel.

There is elegance to the Monaco glitz which will provide a dramatic contrast to Las Vegas's American pizzazz.

For David Coulthard, twice a winner in Monte Carlo for McLaren-Mercedes and a nearly 30-year resident of the principality, no circuit, no city is ever going to replace Monaco as the sport's top attraction.

"You can keep asking that question for another 10 minutes and the answer would still be no, never," said Coulthard. "You can't buy history and it is special because it is difficult."

If you are connected with F1, or want to be, you are in Monte Carlo for the Grand Prix.

With the restraints of COVID-19 and the 2008 global recession having faded, it is once again commonplace for executives to be spotted enjoying a jet set week of high-octane fun.

But it is not all late night parties, champagne and caviar, there is business being done on those mega-yachts squeezed into every inch of the principality's iconic harbour.

Sponsors and their friends are wined and dined in style by teams and even other grands prix like Mexico and Qatar