McLaren Racing will mark its 1,000th Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monaco on Sunday, a milestone it would have celebrated in Miami if Gulf conflicts had halted races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The team will line up a 1966 car alongside its current model, echoing the historic venue that first hosted McLaren in 1966.

Monaco’s allure for CEOs stems from yachts, harbour views and a century‑old racing pedigree, yet its narrow streets limit overtaking, prompting rivals like Miami, Las Vegas and Singapore to tout faster action and larger networking floors. Analysts estimate the principality pays roughly $30‑$34 million in promoter fees, well below the $50 million Qatar and Saudi charge, but still less than newer venues.

Despite criticism, commercial activity at the Monaco GP has risen, with luxury partners such as LVMH’s Tag Heuer and Louis Vuitton securing title roles after 2025. Right Formula’s CEO Robin Fenwick says CEOs still list the race as a bucket‑list event, meaning the circuit retains unique branding power even as rivals expand the F1 business calendar.