Hakkinen defends Monaco GP

Former F1 driver Mika Hakkinen has defended the Monaco Grand Prix, after drivers and fans criticised this year's race.

"I know that some drivers and fans have said that Sunday's race was boring because it is so difficult to overtake," Hakkinen said.

"However, the challenge of driving in Monte Carlo is much more about the precision required to drive a Formula 1 car flat out for 78 laps around such a tight and twisty track, where any error will put you in the barrier.

"At this event you are fighting the track rather than another driver; it demands 100% concentration and focus.

"The happy look on Ricciardo's face on Sunday evening reminded me of my win in Monaco in 1998.

"On any other track, this performance would have been impossible, but in Monaco maximum power is not as important, and it is a very difficult track on which to overtake.

"If you position your car carefully on the track, it becomes impossible for the guy behind to go for it."