FIA Confirms Major Rule Change for 2025 Monaco Grand Prix to Improve Race Excitement
The FIA has officially confirmed a major amendment to the Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, introducing a new mandatory two-stop rule for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix. This update, which modifies Article 30.5 m) of the regulations, was approved by the World Motor Sport Council and is intended to increase excitement and strategic variety in one of F1’s most iconic but often processional races.
Monaco’s narrow, winding layout has long made overtaking difficult, leading to criticism that the race lacks on-track action. To address this, all 20 drivers will now be required to complete a minimum of two pit stops during the Grand Prix. This move is designed to create more unpredictable race outcomes and add a layer of strategy to a race where teams usually lean on minimal tyre changes due to low tyre degradation and limited passing opportunities.
To ensure teams and drivers take the regulation seriously, the FIA has introduced strict penalties for non-compliance. Any driver who fails to make the mandatory two stops without a valid reason will be disqualified from the race. This represents one of the harsher sporting penalties and emphasizes the governing body’s commitment to ensuring the new rule is followed.
Additionally, the updated rule includes provisions for scenarios in which the race is suspended and cannot be resumed. In such situations, instead of disqualification, time penalties will be applied. Specifically, if a driver does not use at least two different dry-weather tyre compounds or fails to run at least three different sets of tyres (regardless of type), they will incur a 30-second time penalty. A similar penalty will also be issued to drivers who complete the race distance on just one set of tyres.
This regulatory change is part of a broader effort by Formula 1 and the FIA to modernize the sport and maintain fan engagement, especially at venues like Monaco that are steeped in tradition but face growing scrutiny over race-day entertainment value. The 2025 Monaco race weekend has already highlighted the circuit’s challenges. During practice sessions, several drivers expressed frustration over traffic, with some incidents underlining the difficulty of the layout. One notable moment saw local star Charles Leclerc collide with Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin after being blocked on a fast lap, reinforcing the need for more dynamic racing elements.
Despite its flaws, Monaco remains a pillar of the Formula 1 calendar. A recently signed six-year contract extension guarantees its place on the schedule through 2031. The new two-stop mandate is seen as a potential solution to revitalize the racing experience without compromising the grandeur of the event. Both the FIA and Formula 1 are optimistic that these changes will make the Monaco Grand Prix more thrilling and keep it relevant as the sport evolves to meet modern expectations. If successful, this strategy adjustment could set a precedent for similar updates at other circuits where overtaking remains a challenge.
