Monaco Grand Prix 2008 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lewis Hamilton produced one of the greatest drives of his career to win the Monaco Grand Prix in treacherous wet conditions, displaying masterful car control and tactical brilliance to beat Robert Kubica and Felipe Massa at the most prestigious race on the Formula 1 calendar. Starting from pole position in the rain, Hamilton controlled the race from start to finish despite constant pressure from his rivals and changing track conditions that caught out numerous drivers on Monaco's unforgiving streets.

Hamilton's pole lap had been taken by Massa, but the McLaren driver started from the front after the Ferrari driver's crash in qualifying relegated him down the order. Hamilton made a perfect start and immediately pulled away in the wet conditions, demonstrating the wet-weather brilliance that was becoming his trademark. His McLaren MP4-23 looked planted through Casino Square and the Swimming Pool complex as rivals struggled for grip. The British driver judged the drying track conditions perfectly, timing his tire changes to perfection while managing the gap to his pursuers.

Kubica drove a brilliant race to finish second for BMW Sauber, capitalizing on superior strategy and consistent pace to claim his best result since his Canadian victory. Massa recovered from his qualifying crash and disappointing grid position to secure third place, salvaging crucial championship points for Ferrari. The race featured several dramatic moments, including crashes for Adrian Sutil and Kazuki Nakajima, while Kimi Räikkönen struggled in the conditions and finished well down the order. Hamilton's victory was a statement performance that showcased his ability to deliver under the most demanding circumstances, narrowing Massa's championship lead and proving McLaren could win even when Ferrari had the faster car.