Apple Brings Back Its Enhanced Maps Features for F1 Monaco Grand Prix

You don't need a pit pass to explore Monaco's famous street circuit — Apple Maps just brought back its most detailed track view yet. Apple has re-launched its enhanced Maps experience for the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, allowing fans to explore the iconic street circuit in stunning 3D detail directly from the Maps app. The feature, previously available in prior years, returns just in time for the 2025 race weekend, offering an immersive way to experience the track without being in Monaco. Users can pinch, zoom, and rotate the circuit, view key landmarks like the Grand Hotel Hairpin and the tunnel, and even simulate a lap from above. The enhanced Maps experience includes a detailed 3D model of the entire 3.337-kilometer (2.074-mile) street circuit, which winds through the principality's narrow roads and past the harbor. Apple first introduced such detailed maps for major events like the Super Bowl and the Monaco Grand Prix in 2019, using its own mapping data and 3D rendering technology. This year's version appears to be an update of that earlier effort, refined with newer map data and visual improvements. The Monaco Grand Prix, held annually since 1929, is one of the most prestigious races in the Formula 1 calendar and is unique in that it takes place on public roads that are closed for the weekend. The enhanced Maps feature is available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices running recent versions of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. It can be accessed by searching for “Monaco Grand Prix” or “Circuit de Monaco” in the Apple Maps app. While Apple has not commented on why the feature was temporarily removed, its return suggests the company sees value in offering rich location-based experiences tied to live events. Analysts view this as part of a broader strategy to differentiate Apple Maps from Google Maps by emphasizing visual detail and curated content. For F1 fans unable to travel to Monaco, the feature provides a tangible connection to the race. It also highlights Apple's investment in 3D mapping assets, which could be leveraged for future events such as the Olympics or other Grands Prix. Moving forward, Apple may expand similar enhanced experiences to other major sporting events or tourist destinations. The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix runs from May 23 to May 25, and the enhanced Maps feature will likely remain available throughout the race weekend and possibly longer. Fans should check their Apple Maps app to explore the circuit and get a sense of the track's legendary challenges.