By Lydia Kane, Senior Correspondent
The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, a crown jewel of the Formula One calendar, is set to thrill motorsport fans worldwide on Sunday, May 25. The race will begin at 9 a.m. ET on the storied Circuit de Monaco, a narrow street track that weaves through the heart of Monte Carlo. The event, famous for its glamour, precision driving, and celebrity appeal, marks the eighth round of the 2025 F1 World Championship.
This year’s race features an exciting grid, headlined by pole-sitter Lando Norris, with last year’s winner and hometown hero Charles Leclerc starting in second position. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen also line up in the front rows, promising an electrifying contest on the 3.337 km circuit.
A Storied Track with Unique Challenges
Unlike many other F1 circuits, the Monaco Grand Prix does not meet the sport’s 190-mile minimum race distance, owing to its compact layout and tight corners. Drivers must navigate 78 laps across 19 twists and turns, demanding near-perfect precision and concentration. Overtaking is notoriously difficult, making qualifying performance and pit stop strategy crucial.
The picturesque backdrop of the Mediterranean coastline and iconic landmarks such as the Monte Carlo Casino and the hairpin at Fairmont Hotel create a visual spectacle like no other in motorsport. It’s no wonder the Monaco GP has long been a favorite among fans and drivers alike.
American Viewers Have Multiple Ways to Tune In
For fans in the United States, watching the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix live has never been more accessible—or affordable. Multiple streaming services and broadcasters are offering options to view the race in real-time, including free trials and discounted bundles.
ESPN+ and the Disney Bundle
ESPN+ is providing comprehensive race coverage, including pre-race analysis, practice sessions, and the main event. For those looking for a broader entertainment package, the Disney Bundle—which combines ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu with ads—is an economical way to access the race and enjoy a wide array of content year-round.
DIRECTV Stream Free Trial
DIRECTV is currently offering a five-day free trial on its streaming platform, which includes access to ESPN channels. This trial can be an ideal way for new users to watch the race live without paying upfront. Users can sign up, enjoy the Monaco GP and other weekend sports, and cancel before the trial period ends if they choose.
Other Streaming Platforms
FuboTV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV also carry ESPN channels and may have trial or promotional offers available. Each platform varies in pricing and features, so fans are encouraged to compare options based on their needs and device compatibility.
Why the Monaco GP Captivates Millions
Part of what makes the Monaco Grand Prix so compelling is its fusion of sport and spectacle. The event attracts a who’s who of celebrities, athletes, and royals, with lavish yachts lining the harbor and exclusive rooftop parties overlooking the track. It’s the rare occasion where Formula One intersects with global pop culture on such a grand scale.
Moreover, the prestige of winning in Monaco can define a driver’s legacy. Greats such as Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, and Michael Schumacher have all triumphed here, and newer stars like Leclerc and Norris are aiming to etch their names into the sport’s history books.
Final Thoughts
With so much at stake and a vibrant mix of heritage and high-tech performance, the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix promises to be a must-watch event. Whether you’re a die-hard F1 aficionado or a casual viewer drawn in by the glitz, there are ample ways to tune in live and experience the magic of Monaco.