WTA Tennis Star Maria Sakkari Blames Hectic Schedule for Robbing Her of First-Class F1 Experience

Monaco, a piece of heaven on earth, attracts a lot of athletes, including plenty of F1 drivers. The tiny district is also a tax haven, which is also a motivating reason for most athletes to relocate. However, tax is not all Monaco has to offer. From the Formula 1 looking glass, Monaco offers one of the oldest and most prestigious races on the calendar. However, WTA star Maria Sakkari hasn’t been able to take advantage of her Monaco citizenship and Formula 1 fandom thanks to a grueling schedule.

The Monaco Grand Prix is a celebratory event for the entire town. The race attracts a lot of celebrities from around the globe for the F1 event and, being a Monaco resident, you can’t miss it. Fans who aren’t fans of the sport come to experience the F1 atmosphere. However, Sakkari, being both a fan and a resident, hasn’t gotten the opportunity of witnessing the crown jewel of F1.

Sakkari revealed her inability to witness the race in a YouTube interview with The Engel Angle. When asked if she was a fan, Sakkari replied, “I am. I became a fan after the famous show (Drive to Survive).”

Then the next line of questioning was if she has watched the race. To that, she replied, “Because it is always the weekend before the French Open, so I cannot be in Monaco.” 

However, the Greek tennis star doesn’t mind missing the race. Why? Because she reckons, “Yeah I wanna see but I’m sure there are other great races also around the world to see.”

Read More: Monaco GP Fights Tooth & Nail to Retain Control Over F1 Racing

With all the new race venues being added to the list, the Tennis star might have a point. The Crown Jewel of F1 might be losing its standing.

Las Vegas Grand Prix ready to steal the ‘Crown Jewel of F1’ tag from Monaco

The Monaco Grand Prix is famous for its luxurious race viewing experience. Nothing could top watching F1 cars zoom around the circuit from a yacht, or so we thought.

As reported by Vincenzo Landino on Twitter, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is making a claim at the Crown Jewel of F1 tag with elaborate race weekend packages. One package costs up to $5 million for a stay in Nobu Sky Villa. The package called the ‘Emperor Package’ is an all-inclusive five-night spectacle for up to 12 guests.

The package also includes a private dinner with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and a private chauffeur and a Rolls-Royce for the conveyance.

WATCH THIS STORY: Why Is The Monaco Grand Prix So Prestigious In The World Of Formula One

The extravagant package could definitely take the shine away from Monaco. However, we will soon find out if Vegas can pull off a race.