In a move aimed at injecting life into the notoriously processional Monaco Grand Prix, Formula One’s governing body, the FIA, has mandated a two-stop strategy for the iconic race.
The decision, announced Wednesday during pre-season testing in Bahrain, comes after years of criticism regarding the lack of overtaking and excitement on the tight, twisting streets of Monte Carlo.
The historic 2.1-mile (3.4 km) circuit, largely unchanged since its debut in 1929, has become a victim of modern F1 car design.
The sheer size and weight of contemporary machines have rendered overtaking virtually impossible, leading to predictable races where grid positions often mirror finishing results.
Last year’s race served as a stark example of this issue. The top 10 finishers crossed the line in the same order they started, prompting reigning world champion Max Verstappen to lament over his team radio, “This is really boring. I should’ve brought my pillow.” Verstappen, finishing sixth behind Charles Leclerc, articulated the frustration of many drivers and fans alike.
In response, the FIA’s world motor sport council has now implemented a mandatory two-stop strategy, effective immediately.
This rule will apply to both wet and dry races, aiming to force strategic variation and create more opportunities for on-track action.
The new regulations stipulate that drivers must use at least three sets of tires during the race. In dry conditions, a minimum of two different tire compounds must be used.
This requirement is intended to diversify pit stop strategies and potentially disrupt the established order.
“The decision has been pushed through with the primary intent of improving the sporting spectacle of the event,” the FIA stated in its announcement. The move marks a significant departure from traditional Monaco strategy, which often saw drivers attempting to manage a single pit stop to maintain track position.
