The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix marks the 96th edition of Formula 1’s most iconic event, where speed meets luxury on the streets of Monte Carlo, but for many of the F1 drivers on the grid, this race is more than just a calendar highlight, it’s a home race in the truest sense. Several stars of the sport live in the heart of Monaco year-round, surrounded by opulence, exclusivity, and the kind of privacy rarely afforded to global celebrities.
Set against the backdrop of a glittering harbour and nestled between billionaires’ penthouses and historic casino halls, the Formula 1 Monaco GP is unlike any other. It’s the only event where the world’s fastest drivers can wake up in their own beds, stroll past familiar cafés, and race through streets they know better than some circuits.
Monaco’s allure goes far beyond its winding track. The city-state offers its residents not only lavish comfort but financial benefits — most notably, a zero percent personal income tax. That’s an appealing prospect for athletes with multi-million dollar incomes, and it’s no surprise that more and more F1 drivers have planted roots in the principality.
Where F1’s finest call home
Lewis Hamilton, a figure synonymous with global celebrity and Formula 1 dominance, calls Monaco one of his primary residences. Though he owns properties worldwide, the seven-time world champion has made his base in the upscale Fontvieille district. During the season, Hamilton is known to unwind with water sports off the coast. As he settles into life at Ferrari, he’s also looking to bounce back from a turbulent start to 2025. “The car felt amazing,” he said after charging to fourth in Imola last week.
Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, has lived in Monaco since turning 18. The Red Bull driver reportedly rents a £16 million apartment with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. A fan of high-adrenaline hobbies, Verstappen often rides a Red Bull-branded jet ski. He and partner Kelly Piquet recently welcomed their first child, adding another dimension to his life off-track.
Hometown favourite Charles Leclerc is the only current driver actually born in Monaco. As a Monegasque citizen, Leclerc is a familiar face around town, often seen golfing or yachting. His 2024 Monaco GP victory was a defining career moment. Ahead of this weekend’s race, where he starts from second, local fans paid tribute by unfurling a banner portraying him as a saint.
More from the Azerbaijan GP
Catch up with Total Motorsport’s latest Azerbaijan GP coverage, including George Russell’s dramatic Baku victory, the full race classification, the fastest lap result, and the Driver of the Day from the 2026 race.
Lando Norris became one of the newest residents of Monaco, moving after the 2024 season. The McLaren driver hoped the shift would signal a new phase in his career. While teammate Oscar Piastri has had the edge so far this season, Norris will line up from pole position on Sunday — his best chance yet to deliver a statement win in familiar surroundings.
Piastri also made the move to Monte Carlo last year. Now leading the championship, the Australian has credited the lifestyle change with improving his performance. Guided by fellow Aussie and ex-Red Bull contender Mark Webber, Piastri has quickly become a top contender in just his second full season.
George Russell, meanwhile, has called Monaco home for two years. The Mercedes driver lives with his girlfriend, fashion influencer Carmen Montero Mundt, and is often seen at local events — including the Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament. Off-track, Russell has been working hard to find consistency this season.
Finally, Carlos Sainz, who now races for Williams, resides just minutes from his former Ferrari teammate Leclerc. It’s been a tough season for the Spaniard, who trails teammate Alex Albon in the standings. But like many others in the paddock, Sainz has embraced the comfort and calm that Monaco offers between races.
As the world watches the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix unfold, many of its participants will be enjoying one distinct advantage — home turf. For these drivers, there’s no travel required, no hotel check-ins, and no unfamiliar roads. Just a weekend of racing through the city they already call home.
