» Monaco GP keeps single DRS zone

A single DRS zone will again be in operation at this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix once again, with the FIA confirming that it will utilise the area along the start/finish straight – the one and only area of the circuit where they could reasonably put it.

The detection point will be placed between the exit of the Piscine (Swimming Pool) chicane and the approach to La Rascasse, while the activation point will be placed at the exit of the Antony Noghes corner, the last on the track’s 3.34-kilometre layout.

The use of DRS will be limited to this portion of the circuit only throughout the Grand Prix weekend, with the drivers freely permitted to use it on any lap during practice and qualifying.

During Sunday’s 78-lap race, the drivers will only be permitted to activate the device if they are timed to be within one second of the car ahead of them as they pass through the detection point.

With the race around the Principality’s streets having a history of producing processional racing, the advent of DRS has improved matters somewhat. Last year’s race featured twelve genuine overtaking moves, although it was still the lowest tally of any Grand Prix over the year.

The 2003 race is one of three Grands Prix to hold the ignominious record of not having a single passing move for its entire 78-lap duration…