What Is The Slowest Corner In F1?

What Is The Slowest Corner In F1
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 26: A general view of the start at the Fairmont Hairpin showing Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (33) Aston Martin Red Bull Racing RB15 and Sebastian Vettel of Germany driving the (5) Scuderia Ferrari SF90 during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 26, 2019 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI201905260322 // Usage for editorial use only //
What Is The Slowest Corner In F1
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 26: A general view of the start at the Fairmont Hairpin showing Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (33) Aston Martin Red Bull Racing RB15 and Sebastian Vettel of Germany driving the (5) Scuderia Ferrari SF90 during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 26, 2019 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI201905260322 // Usage for editorial use only //

The slowest corner in Formula One (F1) is the Fairmont Hairpin in Monaco, which drivers navigate at a speed of just 48 km/h (30 mph). This article explores the characteristics of this corner and its influence on the Monaco Grand Prix.

Introduction to the Fairmont Hairpin

Originally known as the “Station Hairpin” and then the “Loews Hairpin,” the Fairmont Hairpin has a rich history. Named after the hotel that overlooks it, the Fairmont Hairpin is the slowest and one of the most challenging turns in all of Formula One. The corner is so tight that many cars have to use specially-designed steering systems to negotiate it.

The Challenge of the Fairmont Hairpin

Negotiating the Fairmont Hairpin requires the utmost precision from F1 drivers. Given its 180-degree turn at a speed of only 48 km/h, there’s little room for error. Any mistake can lead to losing valuable time or worse, colliding with the barriers. Therefore, despite being the slowest, it’s one of the most thrilling corners of the Circuit de Monaco.

Influence on Race Strategy

The Fairmont Hairpin plays a significant role in the overall strategy of the Monaco Grand Prix. Overtaking opportunities on the Circuit de Monaco are scarce, and while the Fairmont Hairpin is not typically an overtaking spot due to its tightness, it is a critical corner for drivers to get right to maintain a strong lap time.

Iconic Moments at the Fairmont Hairpin

Despite being the slowest corner, the Fairmont Hairpin has been the site of some iconic moments in F1 history. These include Ayrton Senna’s memorable performance in 1992 when he held off Nigel Mansell in the closing laps to win the race, and in 1982, when Riccardo Patrese spun his car at the hairpin but still managed to win the Grand Prix.

The Slow Corner and the Spectacle of Monaco

Part of what makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special is the variety of its track, from the high-speed Tunnel section to the slow and tight Fairmont Hairpin. This corner, taken at just 30 mph, is a testament to the demanding and diverse nature of the race. It offers a stark contrast to the usual high-speed thrill of F1, emphasizing precision and car control over sheer speed.

In conclusion, the Fairmont Hairpin in Monaco, being the slowest corner in Formula One, holds its unique charm and challenge. The delicate balance required to navigate this corner perfectly encapsulates the precision, control, and concentration that are essential to the sport, and it continues to be a defining feature of the illustrious Monaco Grand Prix.

More in News

Yuki Tsunoda

Mekies Slams Tsunoda’s “Shocking” Start in Singapore as Red Bull Future Hangs in the Balance

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies didn’t mince words when ...
Depositphotos 741777616 L

Jack Doohan Poised to Leave Alpine for Haas Reserve Role in 2026

Jack Doohan’s uncertain Formula 1 journey could soon take a ...
F1 Grand Prix Of Singapore

4 Possibilities at the 2025 Singapore GP

Tight on space, physically draining, and demanding beyond belief, the ...
Gettyimages 1176346667

Who’s Won the Most Singapore Grand Prix?

Few drivers have ever tamed the streets of Singapore with ...
F1 Grand Prix Of Singapore Qualifying

2025 Singapore Grand Prix: Fast Facts

After racing on the shores of the Caspian Sea, Formula ...

Trending on F1 Chronicle