This was the first Grand Prix where grid positions were decided by practice time rather than the established method of balloting.[2]Achille Varzi and Tazio Nuvolari exchanged the lead many times during the race and the race was settled in Varzi's favour on the final lap when Nuvolari's car caught fire due to over-revving.[1] Nuvolari was then disqualified due to outside assistance while attempting to push his car to the finish.[2]
Rudolf Caracciola suffered a season-ending accident during practice. He crashed at Tabac due to a brake failure, and suffered serious leg injuries.[3]