He was so pleased with his win that he'd parked his car in the traditional "closed park" in the stands, forgetting that in Monaco, the winner is supposed to drive his vehicle all the way to the Prince's box. Luckily, Jenson is an accomplished triathlete, thus after 78 laps, he still had enough energy to run to pick up his trophy.
My other great memory from my youthful visits to Monaco is of being there for Olivier Panis's victory at the 1996 Grand Prix. I was obviously inspired by what I saw that day – a French driver triumphing in the most prestigious of all Formula One races. What's more, Olivier recently told me that he would like me to be the next winner, so that people would at last stop reminding him that he was the last Frenchman to win an F1 race! I assured him I was doing my utmost to make this happen as soon as possible!
Having been lucky enough to win in Monaco in the GP2 a few years ago, I can tell you that the podium there is truly unique, because it's actually made up of the steps leading up to the Prince's stand. The protocol ceremony takes a sober turn when Prince Albert's assistants remind you that you are very strongly advised not to spray His Highness or his family with champagne. On the other hand, it's a chance to celebrate immediately with your team members, as they're waiting directly at the foot of the steps, unlike in other Grand Prix, where you only get together once the media formalities are over.
If I could win only one Formula One race in my career, I'd want it to be Monaco, even if every Grand Prix is of course worth winning. Without question, the champagne would taste extra delicious on the podium that day!