26/02/2025
NEWS STORY
In a bid to spice up what is usually a processional event, this year's Monaco Grand Prix will feature two mandatory pit stops.
The World Motor Sport Council reviewed the previously reported proposal regarding the implementation of a mandatory 2-stop strategy (in both wet and dry conditions) for the event, with the primary intent of improving the sporting spectacle.
Following recent discussions in the F1 Commission, a specific requirement for the event has been approved mandating the use of at least three sets of tyres in the race, with a minimum of two different tyre compounds to be used if it's a dry race.
Local hero, and 2024 race winner, Charles Leclerc has already given his approval to the decision, but admits that the sport must be willing to return to a 'traditional format' if the new format doesn't work.
"It's just one of these tracks where it's very hard to pass and of course the bigger we make the cars, the more difficult it is also to race," replied Max Verstappen, when asked about the proposal at the recent F1 Live event in London.
"I felt like in 2016 there was still a little bit of an opportunity," he added. "Now that's of course gone. If the two pit stops help, I don't know, but I guess we'll find out, right?"
The mandatory two-stop isn't the only change to the Monaco event, for this year the race has a title sponsor.
Next year, the event, which has a contract until 2031, moves from its traditional May slot to June.