Romain Grosjean and the curse of Monaco

The relationship between Romain Grosjean and the Monaco Grand Prix has never been straightforward. The French driver, who feels at home in the Principality, has yet to find luck on this unique circuit, and this year, an uncontrollable incident has once again cost him valuable points.

Finishing thirteenth in Monaco was difficult for Romain Grosjean to accept, especially on a circuit that is almost like a home Grand Prix for the French driver. After a promising start to the season—impressive given the resources of the Haas team—the last few months have been difficult with a car that simply does not meet his expectations.

In Monte Carlo, however, the former Lotus driver had his smile back and seemed to have a better-balanced car. He set off with ambition and confidence, hoping to finally score points on a circuit he loves but which has rarely been kind to him. As he himself said: “Monaco! When I'm fast, it never works out in the first corner, like in 2012. In 2013, I was blocked by Ricciardo in qualifying, 2014 was a disaster but we still scored points, last year I messed up my qualifying lap at the Pool, and this year… everything has to go according to plan.” Unfortunately, everything went wrong. A collision with Kimi Raikkonen, a driver who openly hates this circuit, ended Grosjean's race. Raikkonen hit the barrier, tried to get back into the race quickly, didn't check his mirrors, and crashed into Grosjean's car, sending the Frenchman straight into the wall. It was a minor incident for Grosjean, reminiscent of last year when young Max Verstappen missed his braking point at Sainte-Dévote and crashed into the back of Grosjean's Lotus.

Next season will mark a new beginning, and Grosjean's determination to shine on this iconic circuit remains unshakeable. Will we finally see a French driver win in Monaco, the first since Olivier Panis in 1996? It would be a historic moment.