Finishing on the top step of the podium is a special feeling for any Formula 1 driver. And for a unique location like Monaco, it also requires a special trophy. For the 79th Monaco GP, Louis Vuitton will be again presenting a travel case for the trophy for the driver winning the race on Sunday.

The trophy that symbolizes Monaco

Last year, Louis Vuitton signed a multi-year partnership with Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM). According to the French luxury company, ‘The Trophy Travel Case’ is handcrafted in the company’s famed Asnières workshop. This unique travel case is seen sporting a red Monogram pattern on a tarmac-black background and a V for Victory. The V symbol is painted in red and white which is symbolic of Monaco’s flag colors.  

Michel Boeri, the president of ACM, believes this partnership is of prime importance for both Monaco GP and Louis Vuitton. He believes that this partnership epitomizes their shared values of tradition, transmission, and excellence.

“Apart from being a major partnership with the flagship brand of the LVMH Group, we are delighted that the trophy awarded to the winner of the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco can now safely travel in ‘first class’. Louis Vuitton and the Automobile Club de Monaco are at once forerunners and project supervisors in their respective fields of expertise,” Boeri added.

“Louis Vuitton is associated with the most coveted trophies in the world. This emblematic partnership allows the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco trophy to benefit from this heritage, bringing unprecedented elegance into the world of motorsport.”

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In 2021, the first edition of the trophy went to Max Verstappen of Red Bull. The Dutchman took a dominant victory in the principality that allowed him to take the lead in the Driver’s championship.

Who will be victorious in the 2022 Monaco GP?

In the new era of F1, could we be in for a three-way battle for the top step? Barcelona proved to be a turning point for Mercedes in their performance. Regardless, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff remained pragmatic. He said, “we’ve seen so far this year that anything can happen and we’ll be looking to maximise every opportunity”.

While Red Bull makes gains, Sergio Perez’s top form may cause worry for the team. The team order in Barcelona sparked fury online, and many were of the opinion that the Mexican could have won that one. The two-time race winner said he understood the team game; and will be looking forward to winning in Monaco.

After Barcelona, it’s yet again a home race for the Scuderia as Charles Leclerc looks to ward off any bad luck. The Monegasque is yet to complete a race in Monaco.

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With rain being predicted on Sunday, with new cars, and a championship battle on the table, there’s a lot to play for here.