How Can the Monaco Grand Prix Be a Better Race?

The Monaco Grand Prix is Formula 1’s most iconic and glamorous race, known for its beautiful setting, historic streets, and celebrity-filled atmosphere. However, many fans argue the race itself has become too predictable and lacks the excitement found on other circuits. Overtaking at Monaco is notoriously difficult, it often turns into a procession rather than a competitive battle. To keep Monaco relevant and entertaining, Formula 1 organizers could make several improvements to the circuit and the race rules. Here are a few possible changes that could transform Monaco into a more thrilling, competitive, and fan-friendly event.

Set a Maximum Lap Time to Prevent Intentional Slow Driving

In recent years, drivers at Monaco have increasingly used the tactic of driving slowly on purpose, especially in feature races, to find clear space or give an advantage to themselves or teammates. This strategy, while understandable from a competitive viewpoint, reduces excitement and can negatively impact the fairness and enjoyment of the race weekend. To fix this issue, Formula 1 could introduce a maximum lap time for the feature race, requiring drivers to maintain a minimum speed. By doing this, organizers can ensure that drivers consistently push their cars throughout each session, giving the race some excitement. A mandatory maximum lap time would also encourage drivers to maintain a steady pace and prevent unnecessary traffic jams, ultimately improving the spectacle and fairness of Monaco’s racing sessions.

Smaller Cars Under the New 2026 Regulations

One of the main reasons overtaking Monaco has become increasingly difficult is the sheer size of modern Formula 1 cars. Current cars are among the largest and widest ever in the sport’s history, leaving drivers very little room to maneuver on Monaco’s narrow streets. The new 2026 technical regulations are expected to introduce smaller and lighter cars, which could significantly improve racing at Monaco. Smaller vehicles would make it easier for drivers to attempt bold overtaking maneuvers, creating more opportunities for exciting wheel-to-wheel action. Additionally, reduced car size could increase driver confidence, prompting more aggressive driving styles and potentially resulting in more unpredictable race outcomes. A return to smaller cars would thus be a crucial step towards restoring the competitive spectacle of Monaco.

Widen the Track and Modify the Circuit

Another approach to improving the Monaco Grand Prix is physically changing the circuit itself. While Monaco’s charm lies in its historic, tight, winding roads, certain areas could be modified or widened to increase overtaking opportunities. For example, sections such as the Nouvelle Chaine after the tunnel or the swimming pool complex could be adjusted slightly to create wider entry and exit points. Even modest adjustments would help drivers launch more successful passing attempts. Monaco’s city planners and Formula 1 officials could collaborate to determine how to carefully update these streets without harming the city’s traditional appeal. While extensive roadwork may face practical challenges, even small improvements to the circuit layout could significantly enhance Monaco’s reputation for close and exciting racing.

Create Special Rules Specifically for Monaco

Given its unique character and challenges, Monaco could benefit from having its own specific set of racing regulations. Introducing special race rules exclusively for Monaco could encourage teams to approach the weekend differently, increasing strategic unpredictability and excitement. For example, Monaco could feature mandatory two-stop strategies or even more, as experimented with today, specialized qualifying formats such as one-lap shootouts, or the inclusion of extra championship points for overtaking moves completed on track. Special tire allocations could also be considered, such as ultra-soft tires designed exclusively for the Monaco race weekend, which could add drama through higher tire degradation rates and strategy variability. Tailoring unique rules for Monaco would ensure that teams and drivers face fresh challenges, keeping both fans and participants engaged throughout the weekend.