Is the Monaco Grand Prix more of a procession than a race? Not in 2025! At least, that’s what Formula 1 and the FIA would have us believe. A proposal to increase the number of mandatory pit stops during ‘the crown jewel’ to two was approved on Wednesday. Before Max Verstappen and his colleagues cross the finish line in the principality, they must have made at least two tyre changes.
The Formula 1 commission discussed a rule change for the Monaco Grand Prix last Tuesday. In recent years, there has been much debate about the competitive value of the historic race. The street circuit is beloved by both fans and drivers, but with the current Formula 1 cars, the qualification is often more interesting than the race. The chance of overtaking on this narrow track is, after all, slim.
At Least Three Stints
That’s why a proposal was submitted this week to mandate more pit stops. This gives teams more opportunities for a so-called undercut – pitting earlier than the competition and thereby gaining a position on the track. The sports advisory committee has also approved the proposal, making it official. During the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix, from May 24 to 26, drivers are required to pit twice for new tyres.
It’s important to remember: not all compounds need to be used. The rule that each driver must use at least two different sets of tyres remains in effect. As long as each driver completes three different stints, it’s all good.
