FIA Confirm Monaco Grand Prix Disqualification R...

FIA Introduces Mandatory Two-Stop Rule for 2025 Monaco Grand Prix to Boost Race Excitement

The FIA has officially confirmed a major update to the Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, introducing a compulsory two-pit-stop rule for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix. This change, approved by the World Motor Sport Council, is designed to bring more excitement and strategic variation to a race that has often been criticized for its processional nature and lack of overtaking opportunities.

Specifically, Article 30.5 m) of the regulations has been revised to require all 20 drivers on the grid to make at least two pit stops during the Monaco race. This adjustment is expected to open the door to more diverse strategies, encouraging teams to explore different tyre combinations and timing for their stops. With overtaking notoriously difficult on Monaco’s narrow streets, the FIA hopes this rule will lead to more unpredictable race outcomes and a more engaging experience for fans.

To enforce this regulation, the FIA is introducing strict penalties. If a driver fails to complete the mandatory two pit stops without a valid and justified reason, they will be disqualified from the race. This stern consequence reflects the FIA’s intention to ensure full compliance with the new rule, leaving little room for teams to bypass the regulation.

In cases where the race is red-flagged and cannot be resumed, the FIA has outlined alternative penalties. Rather than disqualification, drivers who do not use at least two different dry-weather tyre compounds or who fail to run on a minimum of three sets of tyres—regardless of type—will receive a 30-second time penalty. Additionally, completing the race on a single set of tyres will also result in a 30-second penalty added to the final race time. These measures aim to maintain fairness while adapting to exceptional race circumstances.

This change comes amid ongoing efforts by Formula 1 and the FIA to improve the spectacle of racing at circuits where overtaking is naturally limited. The Monaco Grand Prix, while historic and glamorous, has often faced criticism for being processional, with track position outweighing racing action. The 2025 race weekend has already revealed familiar challenges, as drivers struggled with traffic during practice sessions. One incident saw hometown hero Charles Leclerc collide with Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin after being impeded during a flying lap, underscoring the circuit’s limitations.

Despite these persistent challenges, Monaco remains one of the crown jewels of the F1 calendar. A new six-year contract extension has secured its place in the championship through at least 2031. The introduction of this mandatory two-stop rule represents a bold step toward modernizing the event while preserving its legacy. Formula 1 officials are hopeful that this change will bring renewed energy to the Monte Carlo race, offering fans more on-track drama and strategic intrigue. If successful, this rule could serve as a model for future adjustments at other circuits known for limited overtaking, further enhancing the sport’s entertainment value.