Major change announced as Monaco Grand Prix overhaul touted

Monaco Grand Prix to Explore Rule Changes

The iconic Monaco Grand Prix, a racing spectacle steeped in history dating back to 1929, is set to undergo potential rule changes for the 2025 season. In an attempt to enhance on-track action, the FIA’s latest F1 Commission meeting in London discussed “Monaco-specific regulations” to address the inherent challenges of overtaking on the tight, street circuit.

Increasing Pit Stops for More Action

Among the proposed changes is a mandate for more pit stops during the race. Currently, a dry Monaco Grand Prix requires a single mandatory pit stop, employing two slick compounds.The F1 Commission has agreed to explore the introduction of additional mandatory pit stops “with the aim of promoting better racing.” The FIA’s Sporting Advisory Committee will further evaluate these proposals.

“Qualifying remains one of the great challenges and spectacles on the schedule,but race day can turn into a processional event without weather intervening,given the tightness of the layout,” noted the FIA in its meeting recap. This observation underlines the motivation behind the proposed rule changes.

More stringent Testing on Wings and Revised Startup Procedures

Beyond the Monaco-specific regulations, the F1 Commission also announced a slew of other rule changes for the 2025 season. These include increased stringency on deflection tests for rear wings, starting from the beginning of the season, and front wings, effective from the Spanish Grand Prix onwards. Additionally, modifications and clarifications to Sprint and Race start procedures, encompassing those for aborted starts, were confirmed.

Eliminated Gearbox Limitation and Driver Cooling System Finalized

The limit on the number of gearboxes a team can use per season has been revoked, as the reliability of current gearboxes has rendered the regulation “obsolete.” A proposed driver cooling system, developed through collaboration between Formula 1 teams and the FIA, has also been finalized.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The upcoming 2026 regulations were also a point of focus during the meeting. The FIA praised teams and power unit manufacturers for strides made in improving aerodynamic performance and energy management efficiency for the next generation of cars. A further draft of the 2026 technical regulations was discussed.

The proposed rule changes for the Monaco Grand Prix reflect the ongoing efforts within Formula 1 to balance tradition with the need for thrilling and competitive racing. With plans to enhance overtaking opportunities, the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix promises to be a unique and compelling spectacle.

How will the increased stringency of deflection tests for wings impact the performance of the cars?

Monaco Grand Prix to Explore rule Changes: An interview with FIA Race Director, г Lindsay Hudson

Increasing Pit stops for More action

Archyde: FIA recently discussed potential rule changes for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix. Could you walk us through the motivations behind these changes?

г Lindsay Hudson: Well, the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most iconic races in F1, but its tight layout can sometimes lead to less on-track action on race day. We’re exploring changes like additional mandatory pit stops to promote better racing and more exciting finishes.

Archyde: That sounds interesting. Can you tell us more about the proposed number of pit stops?

г Lindsay Hudson: Currently, there’s one mandatory pit stop. We’re considering increasing this number to encourage more strategic racing and tire management. The exact number is still under evaluation.

More Stringent Testing on wings

Archyde: Apart from Monaco-specific regulations, other rule changes were also discussed. Can you shed some light on the increased stringency of deflection tests for wings?

г Lindsay Hudson: Absolutely. We’re committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance in F1. Starting from the 2025 season, we’ll be introducing tougher deflection tests for rear wings and, later in the season, for front wings too. This will ensure the wings continue to perform as intended under the intense forces they’re subjected to during racing.

Eliminated Gearbox Limitation and Driver Cooling System

Archyde: The gearbox limit has been revoked. Why was this change made?

г lindsay Hudson: over the years, gearbox reliability has considerably improved, and the previous limitation is no longer necessary. By removing it, teams will have more flexibility to focus on other areas of their cars without worrying about potential penalties for exceeding gearbox limits.

Archyde: Globally,temperatures are rising,which could pose challenges for drivers in future races. Can you tell us about the finalized driver cooling system?

г Lindsay Hudson: Indeed, climate change is a concern for us. the system we’ve finalized, developed in collaboration with teams, uses regulatory changes to allow more sophisticated cooling technologies. This will help keep drivers comfortable and safe during hotter races.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Archyde: The 2026 regulations were also discussed. What progress has been made towards these?

г Lindsay Hudson: We’re very pleased with the progress made by teams and power unit manufacturers in improving aerodynamic performance and energy management efficiency for the next generation of cars.The upcoming draft of the 2026 technical regulations reflects these advancements and our commitment to embracing technological innovation while preserving the essence of F1.

In your opinion, what other measures could enhance the thrill of racing in the iconic Monaco Grand Prix? we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!