Alain Prost at the Monaco Grand Prix: the Professor of the Monaco Grand Prix
Alain Prost is a living legend of Formula 1. A four-time world champion, he held the record for the most Grand Prix victories for nearly a decade. His meticulous approach and racing intelligence earned him the nickname “The Professor.”While his name is linked to the greatest circuits in the world, Monaco remains a key stage in his career, where he shone on multiple occasions.
A long career marked by success
Born in 1955 in Lorette, France, Alain Prost discovered karting at the age of 14. Passionate about motorsport, he quickly climbed the ranks and excelled in junior formulae before making his Formula 1 debut in 1980 with McLaren. From the outset, his smooth driving style and ability to manage tire wear set him apart.
After a promising stint with Renault, Alain Prost returned to McLaren in 1984 and embarked on a decade of dominance. Facing formidable rivals such as Niki Lauda, Nelson Piquet, and Nigel Mansell, he claimed his first titles in 1985 and 1986. However, it was his legendary rivalry with Ayrton Senna that truly defined his place in F1 history. Their intense battles at McLaren between 1988 and 1989 reached their peak in Monaco and on circuits worldwide. Prost secured two more world championships—1989 with McLaren and 1993 with Williams—before retiring from racing.
Alain Prost and the Monaco Grand Prix: a tumultuous history
Monaco, with its winding layout and unforgiving barriers, is a true test for the most skilled drivers. Alain Prost displayed his exceptional expertise on this demanding track, claiming victory four times (1984, 1985, 1986, and 1988).
• 1984: The Most Frustrating Victory: in torrential rain, Prost led the race but saw Ayrton Senna closing in at an astonishing pace. The race was stopped prematurely on lap 31, just as Senna was about to overtake him. Prost was awarded the victory, but the decision was bittersweet, as the half-points given that day ultimately cost him the championship to Lauda.
• 1985 and 1986: The Confirmation: Alain Prost secured back-to-back wins in the Principality. In the 1986 Monaco Grand Prix, he took advantage of the fierce battle between Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell, breaking away to control the race and cross the finish line first.
• 1988: A Fratricidal Duel with Senna: Monaco was the setting for one of the most iconic moments in Prost’s rivalry with Senna. Senna dominated the race, building a lead of over 50 seconds on Prost. However, in a moment of distraction, Ayrton Senna crashed into the barrier and retired, handing victory to his French teammate. This dramatic twist exemplified how unforgiving Monaco can be, even for the very best.
Prost’s legacy at Monaco
While Senna is often regarded as the King of Monaco, Prost remains one of the circuit’s undisputed masters. His cerebral approach to racing, ability to control the pace, and composure under pressure earned him four memorable victories. He remains a benchmark for today’s drivers, and his legacy in Monaco Grand Prix history is indelible.
With his unique style, racing intelligence, and unforgettable battles on the streets of Monte Carlo, Alain Prost made Monaco one of the most fascinating chapters of his illustrious career.