Formula 1 to introduce extra pit stops at Monaco Grand Prix

Dominika Jordan
Feb 18, 2025, 12:12 PM ET

Formula 1 set for 'Monaco-specific' regulations to aid overtaking at Grand Prix.

Formula 1 is preparing to implement ‘Monaco-specific regulations’ to enhance overtaking opportunities at its most iconic race, the Monaco Grand Prix, the FIA announced on Tuesday.

The Monaco Grand Prix has been a cornerstone of Formula 1 since its inception in the 1950 season. However, the narrow, winding streets of the circuit have historically made overtaking an arduous task.

In the previous year's race, a red flag was raised during the first lap, leading most drivers to complete their mandatory switch to a different tire compound early on, eliminating the need for subsequent pit stops. As a result, the top 10 drivers maintained their positions throughout the race. World champion Max Verstappen described the event, won by local hero Charles Leclerc, as "boring."

In a move to enhance the spectacle, mandatory extra pit stops may be enforced as soon as this year. The Formula 1 Commission approved the special regulations in their meeting on Tuesday.

"With the aim of promoting better racing at the Monaco Grand Prix, the commission discussed proposals for Monaco-specific regulations," read an FIA statement. "The commission agreed to increase the number of mandatory pit stops in the race. These proposals will be further discussed by the Sporting Advisory Committee in the coming weeks."

Sources have informed Race Sundays that the plan may also include the mandatory use of all three tire compounds during the race. Any in-season change requires unanimous approval from the Sporting Advisory Committee.

For now, other races will continue with the standard one-stop mandatory rule. This year's Monaco Grand Prix is scheduled for May 23-25.

"Obviously Monaco, you can't change the layout of the circuit," said Red Bull boss Christian Horner. "And of course, as we've seen previously, with particularly these cars as big as they are now, the race is very much dictated by the Saturday [qualifying session]."

Verstappen stated, "I don't know if it's going to make a massive difference or whatever. I don't mind if it's one stop, two stops, 25 stops. It's all fine. I do whatever is decided, right? 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. I felt like in 2016 there was still a little bit of an opportunity. Now that's of course gone. If the two pit stops help, I don't know, but I guess we'll find out, right? It's the last year with the current generation of cars."

The anticipation builds as fans and teams alike look forward to seeing if the proposed regulations will indeed create more excitement and opportunities for overtaking in one of motorsport's most prestigious events.