Lotus preview the Monaco GP

Editor

Romain Grosjean says it is "something special" doing a quick lap at Monaco while Pastor Maldonado is looking forward to the track's "challenge"…

Romain Grosjean: "It's like an unofficial French Grand Prix first of all! It's great to see so much French support every year and there are so many flags and banners. It's a very challenging circuit and unique on the calendar. As a driver you have to stay calm and relaxed on a track that doesn't allow for any mistakes. I've been super quick in the past, but I've also hit the walls too, so there's a real balance to be struck. It's an exciting and glamorous Grand Prix but always a step into the unknown, because it's difficult to predict how well each car will work there. It's a crazy week with all the focus and attention, but everyone loves Monaco. I do like the Casino corner which is quite nice, high-speed with a little bit of banking. The most difficult part would be the next section – Mirabeau, Loews and then the two Portier corners because you have to 'create' some speed there. There's not a dull moment at any time over the course of a lap. When you finish a lap and you know it's quick because you've given everything and thought you were about to go off about three times, it is something special."

Pastor Maldonado: "First of all it's such an historic Grand Prix and an iconic race for Formula 1. I really love it. I've been very quick in the past and I think it is one of the most special weekends of the year. The atmosphere is unique. The track is really challenging and changes a lot over the sessions, which you need to anticipate. It's difficult to be quick close to the walls and overall it's a very tough race, demanding in terms of concentration and stressful physically and mentally. The only negative thing is that it is quite difficult to overtake, but it is not impossible. I really like the Casino and Swimming Pool sections. Every corner in Monaco has its own challenge, and own individual approach needed – that is probably the beauty of the circuit there. It's where I live now so I might be biased, but it's a very special place."