The Monaco Grand Prix once again sparked debate in Formula One circles as the sport grappled with how to make one of its most glamorous events more competitive. Despite the usual spectacle of luxury yachts, packed terraces, and a sun-drenched Monte Carlo backdrop, Sunday's race featured 78 laps without a single on-track overtake.
The narrow, winding streets of Monaco, which have changed little since the race began in 1929, proved too restrictive for modern F1 cars, which are now larger and heavier than ever before. A second mandatory pit stop was introduced this year to inject strategy into the race, but it failed to improve the action.
Several figures within the sport proposed ideas to reinvigorate the event. Mercedes driver George Russell suggested splitting qualifying into two sessions with points awarded for each, essentially transforming the weekend into a points-based competition rather than a traditional race. He acknowledged that while most fans come for the racing, many attendees in Monaco are more focused on the lavish atmosphere.
Red Bull boss Christian Horner echoed the need for evolution, highlighting how Monaco has reclaimed land over the years and hinting that modest track modifications might finally allow for overtaking without losing the venue's character.
Others, like Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, believe the solution might lie in tweaking race regulations rather than altering the circuit. Wolff pointed out that the race weekend remains a major attraction, especially on Saturday when qualifying generates real excitement.
He suggested exploring rules like a maximum lap time to prevent drivers from excessively slowing down, which could preserve the spectacle while improving Sunday’s competition. The consensus is clear: while Monaco’s prestige is unmatched, its racing product may need innovation to remain relevant.
ADD A COMMENT :