At the 1982 Monaco Grand Prix, Nigel Roebuck described it as a “real strange” race, ultimately becoming one that nobody seemed to want to win. Despite being a coveted event, the chaotic finish saw the lead change four times in the final three laps, leaving only five cars running at the chequered flag in what is considered the craziest race finish in F1 history.
The race took place under a somber cloud following Gilles Villeneuve’s tragic death at Zolder, with Ferrari entering only one car for Didier Pironi, who qualified fifth. Renault’s Rene Arnoux claimed pole and led impressively until lap 14 when he spun and stalled, handing the lead to his teammate Alain Prost.
Prost built a solid lead over Riccardo Patrese’s Brabham but had to contend with worsening rain towards the end. Several incidents and retirements further shuffled the field, creating opportunities for lower-placed cars like Elio de Angelis and Derek Daly, whose damaged Williams was leaking oil on the track.
As the remaining cars navigated the treacherous conditions, the chaotic nature of the race culminated in a surreal scene by the start-finish line, highlighting the unpredictability and drama that unfolded throughout the Monaco Grand Prix.
