Is it sport or is it showbiz?
The drivers, their attendants and acolytes have no doubt - for them this is the most sought-after prize on the Grand Prix circuit, the one to win above all others. Yet there is another side to the prestigious event.
His Serene Highness Prince Rainier III explains how the Principality of Monaco gears itself up to receive 200,000 visitors from all over the world as the circus hits town. Highly-tuned cars worth millions are fiddled and fussed over by the mechanics and pit crews, inspected by race officers and press.
As the teams converge on Monte Carlo and preparations get under way for this, the first and still most important of the round the houses events, John Watson and Niki Lauda find a new optimism with a revolutionary mix of psychology and physiotherapy. Written and presented by Frank Bough
Photography by CHRIS SADLER Producer TOM SAVAGE
(Coverage of this Dear's race next Sunday on BBC2)