Two-Stop Rule Remains for Monaco Grand Prix in 2026 Despite Divisive Debates
FIA Confirms Continuation of Controversial Two-Stop Rule for Monaco Grand Prix in 2026
The FIA has confirmed the continuation of the controversial two-stop requirement for the Monaco Grand Prix in the 2026 sporting regulations, a measure originally introduced in 2023 to enhance the action in one of Formula 1's most debated races. However, despite its attempts to invigorate Monaco's famously narrow circuit, the rule has drawn criticism from drivers and teams alike for encouraging unorthodox strategies that compromise clean racing.
The regulation, known as Article 6.36, mandates drivers to use at least three sets of tires during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, effectively forcing at least two pit stops. The intention was to disrupt the processional nature of the race, where overtaking is notoriously difficult. Yet, instead of producing more overtakes, the regulation led to strategic manipulation—teams instructed one of their drivers to deliberately slow down rivals and create gaps, allowing their lead car to pit without losing positions.
Driver Criticism of Two-Stop Requirement
Mercedes driver George Russell was among the high-profile voices critical of the rule following the 2023 race. Russell had controversially cut a corner to overtake Williams' Alex Albon, who was implementing a deliberate hold-up strategy. Although Russell understood the motivation behind the rule, he called for alternative solutions to improve racing in Monaco.
“We definitely need to have a real think about what the solution is here in Monaco,” Russell said. “I appreciate trying something this year for two stops, but clearly it did not work at all.”
Team Principals Raise Concerns
The persistence of the rule in the upcoming 2026 framework has also raised concerns from team principals. Williams boss James Vowels reflected on the impact the regulation had on the race dynamics, lamenting the uncomfortable decisions his team was forced to make under the current format.
“For clarity, we weren’t the first to do it [in the race],” Vowels explained. “I had to do it in reaction to the field, and I didn’t like it. It’s the most uncomfortable I’ve felt. I like going out there and fighting for points on merit rather than having to game the system to achieve it.
“My personal feeling is I don’t like the lack of clean racing that occurs as a result of it. I think the arguments being made—was it a better show or was it better racing? I can’t answer that. I think that’s for the fans to judge.”
Vowels further revealed that the decision to retain the two-stop rule was not discussed in the F1 Commission, which includes representatives from all 10 teams. He plans to address his concerns directly with FIA single seater director Nikolas Tombazis in an upcoming meeting.
The Future of Monaco's Iconic Race
While the FIA's move keeps its commitment to adding "spice" to the Monaco Grand Prix, it remains to be seen if teams and fans will warm to the regulation or if its continuation will remain a sticking point in the evolution of Formula 1's most iconic race.
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