From sizzling Barcelona to elite Monaco

Next weekend, Monaco will host the most prestigious and elite race of the whole F1 season.

Twenty-four brave drivers will race around the narrow roads of Monte Carlo.

Many question whether this race meets the required safety standards.

Others are asking why F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone is insistent on moving races away from Europe to rich countries where F1 and the racing culture is practically non-existent.

The F1 season has produced five winners already this year: three world champions, a seasoned driver and practically a novice.

In Barcelona we witnessed a comeback, with the Williams team returning to the top spot on the podium for the first time since Juan Pablo Montoya won for the team back in 2004.

Pity that the team’s celebrations were marred by the unfortunate fire that engulfed the Williams garage in Spain.

Statistically, Monaco is usually won by seasoned drivers, with experience and talent playing a key role.

However, unfancied drivers like Olivier Panis and Riccardo Patrese have broke this trend in the past.

The Monaco grand prix is a favourite with all drivers and possibly this is the only place where the ability of the drivers can over-ride the deficiencies of the car.

In Monte Carlo, grip is an important factor with the Pirelli tyres playing a key role once again.­­