Jake Humphrey introduces coverage of the most famous and prestigious race in the Formula One calendar. First staged 80 years ago, the Monaco Grand Prix snakes through the city streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamine, where the famous harbour acts as a glamorous backdrop. With traditional frontrunners McLaren and Ferrari struggling for form at the start of the season it' newcomers Brawn GP who have been setting the pace, with British driver Jenson Button assured of starting this race as championship leader. Defending champion Lewis Hamilton will be vying to repeat his success in 2008, when he became the first driver in five years to win after not starting on pole.