Why is Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix not on Thursday?
The F1 Monaco Grand Prix usually begins on Thursday, so why is 2023 different?
Formula 1 returns for one of its most prestigious races this weekend – the Monaco Grand Prix – though the race will look a little different this year.
A traditional F1 race weekend begins on Friday with practice, continues into Saturday with final practice and qualifying, then the race takes place on Sunday.
However, the Monaco Grand Prix has traditionally looked a little different to other races on the calendar in terms of timing.
Before 2022, the Monaco Grand Prix was unique in the sense that the first day was usually Thursday, with a break on Friday, and the remaining action on Saturday and Sunday.
If you're wondering why there will be no Formula 1 action on Thursday at the Monaco Grand Prix 2023, RadioTimes.com brings you everything you need to know.
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Why is Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix not on Thursday?
Before 2022, the Monaco Grand Prix was held on the weekend of Ascension Day – a bank holiday in the province.
For this reason, racing was paused on the Friday to observe the day and for regular traffic to flow through Monte Carlo.
Large swathes of the circuit are opened and public traffic flows through Monaco as usual, without major disruption.
The day itself has become less significant to locals but the Friday break has remained a tradition to allow businesses and hotels to replenish stock and operate at maximum capacity over the hectic four-day spell.
However, in 2022, the Thursday was scrapped, with action running from Friday to Sunday. The reason given is to make the race weekend more compact in a sprawling 22-race season.
There would have been 23 races until the Russian Grand Prix was cancelled, and F1 was determined not to overload teams and drivers with a short turnaround between the Spanish Grand Prix and Monaco Grand Prix.
It may seem like a small change, but every day counts to teams and drivers and freeing up the Thursday gives a little extra breathing space.
When is the Monaco Grand Prix on TV?
The Monaco Grand Prix will air live on Sky Sports F1 from 12:30pm on Sunday 28th May.
All races will be shown live on Sky Sports F1 and Main Event throughout the season.
Sky customers can add individual channels for just £18 per month or add the complete sports package to their deal for just £25 per month.
If you’re looking for something else to watch, check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide or visit our Sport hub for all the latest news.
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