Sport: Through the Streets

In a sport that is obsessed with speed and dogged by death, the Grand Prix de Monaco is a cheerful interlude. Only once, in 1952, was a driver killed in the race, and even the most daring racers—piloting cars capable of 180 m.p.h.—can average only about 70 m.p.h. around the twisty, 1.95-mi. Monte Carlo circuit.

Over the Wall. But if it is relatively safe, Monaco is one of the world's most exciting auto races. The course plunges wildly through the 368-acre Mediterranean principality itself, swooping up the narrow streets from the harbor, past the...