The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most iconic and talkedabout races in the world of motorsport. Every year fans ask when exactly does it take place? Because the Grand Prix follows the official global schedule of Formula 1, its date shifts slightly each season. Below you’ll find a clear timeline for recent and upcoming editions, plus what to expect if you plan to watch or attend. This helps you mark your calendar – whether you’re tuning in from home or heading to the streets of Monte Carlo.
Recent Edition Monaco Grand Prix 2024
In 2024, the Monaco Grand Prix was held over the traditional race weekend in late May. The official timetable showed that the main Grand Prix race took place onSunday, 26 May 2024. The full weekend included qualifying, practice sessions, and supportseries events, following the customary structure on the narrow and winding Circuit de Monaco.
Typical Weekend Schedule for 2024
- Thursday Opening sessions and press conferences
- Friday First rounds of practice and supportseries sessions
- Saturday Final practice and qualifying to determine grid positions
- Sunday The Grand Prix race – final showdown under the Mediterranean sun
Monaco Grand Prix 2025 Schedule
Looking ahead, the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix is scheduled to take place fromFriday 23 May through Sunday 25 May 2025. The main race day, where the winner is crowned, will occur onSunday, 25 May 2025.
What Happens During the 2025 Weekend
- Thursday or Friday Briefing, car setups, and initial track sessions for support-race categories (F2 / F3 / PorscheSupercup)
- Friday Formula 1 practice sessions begin, allowing teams to finetune their cars for the challenging street circuit.
- Saturday Final practice and qualifying – vital, since overtaking during the race is notoriously difficult.
- Sunday Race day! 78 laps around Circuit de Monaco, starting in the afternoon local time (around 1500 CEST) for the 2025 edition.
Why the Date of Monaco Grand Prix Varies Year to Year
The Monaco Grand Prix doesn’t have a fixed calendar date in the Gregorian calendar. Instead, it slides depending on the broader Formula 1 season schedule, global logistics, and coordination with other Grand Prix events. As a result, the race often lands in late May or occasionally early June, depending on how the season is structured.
For instance, organizers have confirmed that from 2026 onward, the Monaco Grand Prix will return early June as the first European race of the season. This shift helps align with other circuits in Europe and allows teams additional preparation time after non-European rounds.
What to Know If You’re Watching or Attending
For Viewers
If you’re planning to watch from home, the standard format includes three crucial days qualifying (Saturday) and race day (Sunday), both starting in the afternoon local time. Timezone conversions matter – Monaco runs on Central European Summer Time (CEST) when the event is held.
For Attendees or Fans Planning a Trip
- Arrive early the track weekend starts midweek with preliminary sessions. Thursday or Friday offer a chance to catch practice laps before crowds swell.
- Expect high demand Monaco weekends are busy; hotels book quickly, and transport can be congested. Using public transit is often recommended.
- Choose seats carefully with the narrow circuit and limited visibility, vantage points feel different than standard racetracks – consider grandstands, VIP zones, or even harborside views for a unique perspective.
- Plan for weather and packing spring in Monaco can be mild – but sunlight, wind, or rain can affect comfort. Be ready for variable conditions.
Looking Ahead Future Editions of Monaco Grand Prix
With recent announcements confirming a longterm extension of the race’s contract, fans can expect Monaco Grand Prix to remain a fixture on the Formula 1 calendar until at least 2035. The shift of the race to early June starting in 2026 has been confirmed, which might slightly alter the timing but not the prestige or format.
Whether you’re a new fan curious about when to watch, or a seasoned spectator planning a trip to Monte Carlo, knowing the typical May-June window should help you prepare. As always with Formula 1, official announcements from the race promoters or the governing body will provide the most accurate timing as each season approaches.
Summary When Is Monaco Grand Prix?
- 2024 edition Race held on Sunday, 26 May 2024.
- 2025 edition Grand Prix scheduled for Sunday, 25 May 2025 (weekend 23-25 May).
- Starting 2026 Monaco Grand Prix will likely move to early June, typically the first weekend of the month.
- Weekend format Practice and qualifying sessions on Thursday to Saturday, with the main race on Sunday.
The Monaco Grand Prix remains one of the most spectacular and atmospheric races in Formula 1, combining high-speed skill with the glamour of the Principality. While the exact date shifts slightly each season, the Grand Prix usually lands in late May – with 2024’s race on 26 May and 2025 scheduled for 25 May. From 2026 onward, fans can expect early June dates for this legendary event. Whether you’re watching from your couch or planning a visit to Monte Carlo, keeping an eye on the official Formula 1 calendar or announcements from the organizers will ensure you don’t miss a second of the action. Mark your calendars and get ready for another thrilling weekend of racing on the narrow, historic streets of Monaco.