The Monaco Historic GP 2024 race was filled with dramatic moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. At the start, Toni Seiler in a Shadow DN1 stalled on the grid, causing a flurry of activity as other drivers reacted to avoid him. Marco Werner, driving a Lotus 76, made a bold move to pass Nick Padmore’s Lotus 77 for second place at Sainte Devote, showcasing his aggressive driving style and quick reflexes.

Meanwhile, exiting the same corner, Matthew Wrigley lost the rear end of his Penske PC3, resulting in a loss of control and causing him to drop to seventh place behind Frédéric Lajoux in a Surtees TS19. Despite this setback, Wrigley did not give up and remained close behind Lajoux, putting pressure on him for the next few laps with a series of daring maneuvers.

On lap 3, James Davison in a Hill GH1 encountered mechanical issues and had to stop at the entrance to Le Tunnel, adding to the list of retirements. Lap 5 saw further drama as Douglas Mockett spun his Penske PC4 at La Rascasse, narrowly avoiding the barriers but losing several positions in the process. Another incident involved Steve Brooks in an Embassy Hill Lola T370, who made contact with James Hagan’s Hesketh 308 at Sainte Devote, damaging both cars and altering their race strategies.

Pole sitter Stuart Hall, driving a McLaren M23, shot into a lead he would never relinquish. Right from the start, Hall exhibited supreme control and confidence, navigating the tricky Monaco circuit with precision. His dominance was evident, as he consistently set the fastest lap times and maintained a significant gap from his pursuers. Hall’s performance was a masterclass in vintage racing, combining speed, skill, and a deep understanding of the car’s capabilities.

There was a close fight for second place among Werner, Padmore, and Michael Lyons in a McLaren M26. This battle provided some of the most thrilling moments of the Monaco Historic GP, with the three drivers exchanging positions multiple times and pushing each other to their limits. However, Werner was forced to retire on lap 6 due to a broken second-gear dog ring, a mechanical failure that ended his chances of a podium finish and left Padmore and Lyons to continue their fierce duel.

Guillaume Roman in an Ensign N175 also faced difficulties, eventually parking his car before Le Tunnel on lap 10 due to an issue that could not be resolved on track. Such mechanical failures are a part of the challenge in historic racing, where the age of the vehicles often leads to unexpected problems despite meticulous preparation.

Drive Vintage’s performance in this storied race, especially with Jean-Denis Delétraz at the helm, added to the excitement and heritage of the Monaco Historic GP circuit. Their participation was a testament to the enduring appeal and passion for classic Formula 1 racing. Delétraz’s effort in keeping the Sharon DN3 competitive against such a strong field of historic cars showcased the dedication and expertise required to compete at this level.

The Monaco Historic GP is not just about the competition; it is also about the celebration of automotive history and the camaraderie among enthusiasts. The paddock area was a hive of activity, with teams and fans alike admiring the beautifully restored cars, discussing their histories, and sharing their love for motorsport. The event provided a unique opportunity to see some of the most iconic cars in action, evoking memories of a bygone era when racing was as much about the thrill of driving as it was about cutting-edge technology.

Each car competing at the Monaco Historic GP had a story to tell, from the engineering innovations they represented to the legendary drivers who once piloted them. The Sharon DN3, for example, was part of a significant period in Formula 1 history. Designed by South African engineer John Thompson and originally raced by the Embassy Hill team, the DN3 participated in numerous Grands Prix during the mid-1970s.

It was a car that combined British engineering with the sheer driving talent of racers like Graham Hill, and its presence at the Monaco Historic GP brought back a wave of nostalgia for many fans.

Jean-Denis Delétraz, known for his versatility across various motorsport disciplines, brought his extensive experience to the Monaco Historic GP. Delétraz’s career includes stints in Formula 1, sports car racing, and endurance events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His ability to adapt to different types of cars and circuits made him an ideal candidate to pilot the Sharon DN3.

Throughout the Monaco Historic GP race, Delétraz’s strategic approach and smooth driving style helped him navigate Monte Carlo’s tight and twisty circuit, avoiding the numerous pitfalls that caught out several other drivers.

Vintage racing at the Monaco Historic GP, particularly at such a prestigious event, requires a deep appreciation for the mechanical art and the historical significance of the cars. Teams like Drive Vintage invest countless hours in restoring and maintaining these classic machines, ensuring that they are race-ready while preserving their original character. This dedication was evident in the pristine condition of the Sharon DN3, which ran reliably throughout the Monaco Historic GP.

The Monaco Historic GP circuit itself is a key character in the drama of the event. With famous sections like Sainte Devote, Casino Square, Mirabeau, and the Tunnel, the track demands a high level of skill and concentration. The narrow streets and close proximity of the barriers leave little room for error, making it a true test for any driver. For spectators, there is a unique thrill in watching these historic cars navigate such a challenging course, combining modern-day precision with vintage flair.

One of the highlights of the Monaco Historic GP for many is the sight and sound of the classic cars in action. The roar of the engines, the smell of petrol, and the sight of beautifully crafted machines in full flight create an immersive experience that transports onlookers back in time. The Monaco Historic GP offers a sensory feast, blending the historical with the contemporary in a way that few other events can match.

Drive Vintage’s participation in the Monaco Historic GP, marked by Jean-Denis Delétraz’s determined effort and the Sharon DN3’s robust performance, was a highlight of the 2024 event. Their presence underscored the essential connection between past and present, reminding us of the enduring legacy of motorsport and its continuous evolution.

The collaboration between driver and machine, team effort, and the passion of the fans create an atmosphere that is both competitive and celebratory, a true reflection of the spirit of historic racing.

The Monaco Historic GP remains one of the premier events on the classic racing calendar, drawing competitors and spectators from around the world. Each participant at the Monaco Historic GP, including Drive Vintage, contributes to a living museum of motorsport history, where every race is a chapter in a larger story of speed, innovation, and human endeavor.