What to Watch in the Upcoming Monaco Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix is always one of the most important races on the Formula One calendar, but it is also boring. However, this year’s new rule promises some excitement. Set on the tight, twisty streets of Monte Carlo, it’s a race that tests driver skill, team precision, and raw focus like no other. For 2025, Monaco brings even more reasons to watch closely, with new rules, key team figures making appearances, and several rookies trying to survive their first time through the famous hairpin and tunnel. This weekend isn’t just about glamour—it’s about grit, strategy, and making history on the crown of Motorsport—The Monte Carlo street circuit.
First-Ever Mandatory Two Pit Stops at Monaco
For the first time in its storied history, the Monaco Grand Prix will require drivers to make at least two pit stops during the race. This change, introduced to increase strategic variability and excitement, mandates the use of at least three different sets of tires and two different compounds over the 78-lap race. Traditionally, Monaco has been a one-stop race due to its tight layout and limited overtaking opportunities. However, the new rule aims to disrupt the usual procession by introducing more variables into race strategy. Drivers and teams will need to carefully plan their pit stops, considering factors like tire degradation, traffic, and the timing of safety cars. This shift could lead to unexpected strategies and outcomes, which shake up the traditional Monaco race dynamics.
Qualifying: The Decisive Factor in Monaco
Monaco’s narrow and winding streets make overtaking extremely challenging, placing a premium on qualifying performance. Securing a front-row start is often crucial, as track position can dictate race outcomes. Drivers will push their cars to the limit during the qualifying session, knowing that even a slight mistake can result in a poor starting position and a difficult race. The pressure is immense, and the margin for error is minimal. Teams will focus on optimizing their setups for qualifying, aiming to provide their drivers with the best chance to secure a strong grid position. With the new two-stop rule adding strategic complexity, starting at the front could provide a significant advantage in managing race pace and pit stop timing, but because of the mandatory two stops, drivers starting at the back also have some chance on the strategy side.
Adrian Newey’s First Trackside Appearance with Aston Martin
Renowned engineer, Adrian Newey, will make his first on-site appearance with Aston Martin at the Monaco Grand Prix. Newey, who joined the team earlier this year, brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success in Formula One. His presence in the garage is expected to provide valuable insights into car performance and strategy. Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell emphasized the importance of Newey’s involvement, stating that his expertise will help identify areas for improvement and contribute to the team’s development efforts. Rumor said Newey gave some “advice” to the Aston Martin Imola upgrade package, and it turned out good. However, the British team insisted that Newey has not been involved in the current car’s design. Newey’s observations and feedback during the race weekend could influence future updates and the 2026 car project. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how his presence impacts the team’s performance in Monaco.
Six Drivers Making Their Monaco Grand Prix Debut
The 2025 season has introduced several new talents to the Formula One grid, and six of these drivers will experience the Monaco Grand Prix for the first time. Rookies such as Kimi Antonelli, Ollie Bearman, Gabriel Bortoleto, Franco Colapinto, Isack Hadjar, and Liam Lawson will face the unique challenges of the Monte Carlo circuit. Monaco’s unforgiving layout, with its close barriers and lack of runoff areas, tests a driver’s precision and composure. For these newcomers, the weekend will be a steep learning curve, requiring them to quickly adapt to the circuit’s demands. Teams will focus on providing their rookies with ample practice time and guidance to build confidence ahead of qualifying and the race. The performance of these debutants will be closely monitored, as their ability to handle the pressure and complexity of Monaco could influence their prospects in the sport.
