Libre Arbitre – Philippe Alliot: “In Monaco, the limit is the rail!”
What a weekend for all motorsport enthusiasts! Moto GP in Mugello, Formula 1 in Monaco and finally the 500 Miles of Indianapolis. Congratulations to these champions who made us all vibrate, even if sometimes success was not at the rendezvous. I particularly enjoyed the Indianapolis 500 and Sébastien Bourdais’ comments which made the race exciting.
Previously, of course, we had this famous Monaco Grand Prix. Certainly the most mythical race, known all over the world for good reason. Justice of the peace, only the great drivers have won or distinguished themselves on this circuit. In Monaco, the limit is the rail! In addition to the sporting aspect, there is this completely unreal setting of a track framed by buildings, luxury hotels and the most beautiful boats in the world. I have always really enjoyed racing there. It’s an unparalleled Grand Prix where even with a car inferior to the others, you still have a chance to stand out.
We always arrived early on Tuesday. The first tests at the time were on Thursday and already counted for qualifying. Friday was occupied by various rather playful events, a football match or a golf tournament in the company of the Prince, and obligations with sponsors. Then return to serious things on Saturday day with the last of the qualifications.
Qualifying is certainly the most exciting moment of the meeting for the drivers but also for the spectators. As proof this weekend, the duel between Charles Leclerc and Checo Perez for the gain of the pole. Conversely, I won’t hide from you that I caught myself closing one eye during the race. Strongly the next route more conducive to overtaking.
I discovered this circuit first of all in Formula 3, which at the time was the antechamber of Formula 1, by signing pole position two years in a row. Then came Formula 1. I remember an anecdote the year I was racing for Ligier. There were only a few laps left when I was third when the primary shaft of the gearbox gave up the ghost. Mad with rage after the mechanics when he learned that they had not changed this part before the race, Guy Ligier smashed the table of the motorhome with a huge punch. Otherwise, I can tell you that driving an F1 between the rails of the Monaco circuit is truly a unique moment in the life of a man. I had this chance.
Sunday evening was devoted to the traditional gala dinner given by the prince at the palace, where you had to swap the suit for the tuxedo. We then had to leave very quickly for the next circuit where a dedicated team was waiting for us to carry out free practice outside the GP. Back then, unlike now, we had the chance to drive tirelessly and systematically test to prepare for the next Grand Prix.
Finally, I have a thought for Charles Leclerc. He must have suffered on Monday morning realizing on waking that after Barcelona he went from passing for the second time in two courses next to a great victory that was granted to him thanks to an absolute faultless performance on his part.
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