A radical change at the Monaco Grand Prix will shake up Formula 1!
For years, the Monaco Grand Prix has been an iconic event, but often criticized for its lack of on-track action. The narrow, winding streets make overtaking nearly impossible, turning the race into a long procession decided in qualifying. To fix this, the FIA has made a groundbreaking decision: mandating two compulsory pit stops. This rule change could breathe new life into one of the most historic races on the Formula 1 calendar.
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A long-awaited decision
The issue was clear: Monaco is spectacular on Saturday, but dull on Sunday. With today’s larger and heavier cars, overtaking is rare, and pit stop strategy is often the only way to gain positions. With just one mandatory stop, teams play it safe, resulting in little on-track action. By forcing two pit stops, the FIA hopes to shake up the routine and push teams into making more varied strategic choices.
The rule had been under discussion for weeks and was officially approved by the FIA during a World Motor Sport Council meeting. It requires drivers to use at least three different sets of tires during the race, with a minimum of two different compounds if conditions remain dry. This could completely change tire management and force drivers to push harder.
Finally, more strategic variability
With two mandatory stops, teams can no longer rely on ultra-conservative tire management. Some may opt for softer compounds to exploit peak performance, while others might adjust their strategy based on race incidents. Safety cars could also play a bigger role, forcing teams to adapt in real time. The biggest benefit? Drivers will have to push harder. With a single-stop strategy, preserving tires was the priority. Now, aggressive driving could return, creating fluctuating gaps and unpredictable battles—exactly what fans want to see.
Enough to save Monaco Grand Prix?
Monaco remains one of the most prestigious races on the calendar, but its place in F1 is increasingly questioned as modern circuits offer better racing suited to today’s cars. This rule change is an attempt to keep the event exciting and justify its continued presence in F1 world championship.
However, this is just a temporary fix. The Monaco track remains extremely tight for modern F1 cars. Back in the 1990s and 2000s, cars were smaller, making wheel-to-wheel racing more feasible. Today, with cars over two meters wide and weighing 800 kg, Monaco is a challenge for race entertainment. Some argue that more drastic changes are needed—whether modifying the layout or reducing car size in the future. Despite its limitations, this regulation change is a step in the right direction. If Monaco delivers a more exciting race, it could push the FIA to implement similar changes at other street circuits where overtaking is notoriously difficult.
This article examines the impact of the Monaco GP’s new regulation and how it could reshape competition. By mandating two pit stops, the FIA hopes to introduce more strategic diversity and bring excitement back to a race often seen as too predictable. The question remains: Will it be enough to turn Monaco into a thrilling event once again?
Images: © Scuderia Ferrari
