FIA confirm Monaco Grand Prix disqualification p....read more

FIA confirm Monaco Grand Prix disqualification p….read more

In a major shake-up to the Formula 1 regulations aimed at enhancing the spectacle of one of the sport’s most prestigious events, the FIA has officially confirmed a new mandatory tyre rule for the Monaco Grand Prix—along with a stern warning to teams that penalties for non-compliance will be severe.

As part of its latest update to the F1 Sporting Regulations, the World Motor Sport Council has approved a rule that will require every driver to make two compulsory pit stops during the 2025 edition of the race around the tight and twisting streets of Monte Carlo. This change, now enshrined in Article 30.5 m) of the Sporting Regulations, is designed to inject more unpredictability and overtaking opportunities into a race often criticised for being processional and lacking in drama due to the narrow, overtaking-unfriendly circuit layout.

The new regulation marks a significant departure from the traditional single-stop strategies typically employed at Monaco, where tyre degradation is historically low and track position is crucial. In most previous editions of the race, many teams would attempt to run as long as possible on one set of tyres, turning the Grand Prix into a tyre management exercise rather than a flat-out sprint.

However, from 2025 onwards, that approach will no longer be viable. Under the new rules, every driver must complete two separate pit stops, meaning teams will have to think more creatively about strategy and tyre usage. This move could force more variation in race tactics, increase mid-race shuffling of positions, and potentially give more chances for midfield teams to challenge the frontrunners.

Failing to adhere to this requirement could come with harsh consequences. The FIA has confirmed that drivers who do not complete the mandatory two stops face the possibility of disqualification from the race results. This represents one of the more severe penalties the governing body can impose and underscores how seriously they are treating compliance with the new regulation.

The FIA’s decision follows ongoing criticism that the Monaco Grand Prix has become too predictable, with many fans and experts calling for changes to liven up the racing. While the iconic glamour and historic prestige of the event remain untouched, the racing itself has often been underwhelming, with overtaking nearly impossible on the narrow circuit.

This year’s Monaco Grand Prix only added to the controversy, as Lewis Hamilton dramatically crashed out while battling at the front, and both McLaren and Red Bull were unexpectedly outpaced in a race that delivered shocking results. With such unpredictability already showing signs of life in 2024, the FIA clearly sees an opportunity to ride the momentum by guaranteeing even more variability in next year’s event.

By mandating two pit stops, the FIA hopes to not only spice up strategy but also promote greater competition throughout the field. With the potential for disqualification looming over any team or driver tempted to cut corners, the message is clear: follow the rules, or face the consequences. The Monaco Grand Prix is set for a new era—where smart strategy and strict compliance could be the difference between victory and elimination.