Just in:FIA confirm Monaco Grand Prix disqualification Ra… read more
FIA confirm Monaco Grand Prix disqualification Ra… read more
The FIA has officially confirmed a significant change to the Sporting Regulations for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, introducing stricter tyre rules aimed at increasing the race’s excitement. In an update to Article 30.5 m) of the regulations, all 20 Formula 1 drivers will now be required to complete two mandatory pit stops during the race at the iconic Monte Carlo circuit. The revision, approved by the World Motor Sport Council, is intended to bring more strategic variety and unpredictability to a race often criticized for its lack of overtaking and on-track drama.
Under the new rules, failure to comply with the mandatory two-stop requirement will result in harsh consequences. The FIA has confirmed that any driver who does not make both pit stops, without a valid reason, will face disqualification. This strict penalty is aimed at ensuring full compliance from all teams and drivers, especially in a race where strategic gambles are limited due to the nature of the circuit.
The regulation also addresses scenarios in which the race is suspended and cannot be restarted. In such cases, instead of disqualification, time penalties will be applied. Specifically, any driver who fails to use at least two different dry-weather tyre compounds, or who does not utilize at least three sets of tyres of any type during the race, will receive a 30-second time penalty. Additionally, drivers who complete the race on a single set of tyres will have another 30 seconds added to their total race time.
This move is part of Formula 1’s broader effort to rejuvenate the spectacle of the Monaco Grand Prix, which has faced criticism in recent years due to limited overtaking opportunities caused by the narrow track layout. The 2025 race weekend has already shown signs of the circuit’s challenges, with several drivers voicing frustration over traffic during practice sessions. Home favorite Charles Leclerc notably collided with Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin after being impeded on a flying lap, further highlighting the difficulties of navigating the crowded circuit.
Despite these issues, the Monaco Grand Prix remains a cornerstone of the Formula 1 calendar. A new six-year agreement will keep the event in the championship until at least 2031. The FIA and Formula 1 are hopeful that the introduction of mandatory two-stop strategies will inject fresh excitement into the race and help maintain its iconic status in the sport.
The success of this rule change could play a crucial role in the future of the Monaco GP, as the sport continues to evolve to meet fan expectations and improve the overall race-day spectacle.
