McLaren Shocks Fans with Bold Monaco GP Move

McLaren has surprised the Formula 1 paddock by making a rare modification for the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend. While Monaco is known for its narrow streets and low-speed corners, teams often bring circuit-specific changes, especially in the area of downforce.

This time around, McLaren has increased the size of its brake ducts, an unusual step since the circuit is not recognized for heavy brake use or overheating. Typically, teams need to help their brakes reach the ideal operating temperature at Monaco, not cool them further.

The reasoning behind this distinct change likely relates to updated technical regulations that have affected how teams manage the flow of heat from brakes to the wheel rims. These rules came into effect just before the Imola Grand Prix and made it tougher for teams to transfer heat efficiently. For more on the latest F1 technical regulations, refer to the FIA’s official documentation.

By altering the brake ducts, McLaren aims to improve its control over tyre pressures, an area that can make a significant difference on the slippery and twisty asphalt of Monaco.

Heading into the eighth race of the 2025 season, McLaren holds a commanding 132-point lead over Mercedes in the Constructors’ standings. Oscar Piastri currently tops the Drivers’ championship, eight points ahead of teammate Lando Norris, with Max Verstappen only nine points behind in third.

In the last round at Imola, McLaren’s main asset—supreme tyre management—seemed to be matched by Red Bull, which raised questions about whether their competitive edge in that department has faded. For deeper insights into tyre performance in F1, check out this MIT Motorsports research paper.

Other teams, including Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes, have made their own unique updates for Monaco, but McLaren’s approach stands out. While most competitors opt to reduce brake duct sizing to help build heat, McLaren’s engineers have gone in the opposite direction.

Early indicators suggest that this is aimed at preventing unwanted tyre pressure spikes, which can affect grip and performance during qualifying and the demanding 78-lap race.

The performance shift comes at a high-stakes moment. The Monaco Grand Prix, scheduled for May 25, is famous for its lack of overtaking and the critical importance of qualifying. Teams will be watching closely to see if McLaren’s technical strategy pays off, especially as tyre performance becomes even more essential on this circuit’s tricky surface. The latest free practice session in Monaco already saw Charles Leclerc overcome an early crash to top the times, with Max Verstappen and the McLaren duo not far behind.

With just 13 points separating the top two McLaren drivers, pressure remains high. Both Piastri and Norris are aiming to solidify their positions as serious title contenders.

The adjustment to the brake ducts could provide the small advantage needed to stay ahead of close rivals like Red Bull’s Verstappen and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. For historical context on Monaco GP strategies, visit Formula 1’s official archive.

As the weekend continues, teams will monitor the effectiveness of their new components. For McLaren, this unusual change could make all the difference in the tight battle for both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ championships as the Formula 1 season moves deeper into its European stretch. For more detailed insights into the race pace and tyre strategies, see the Monaco GP two-stop strategy analysis.

Early signs from the weekend also hint at a potential Monaco clean weekend for some teams, as reliability and consistency prove just as critical as outright speed.

James William

James William covers the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, from the Rolex 24 at Daytona to sprint-race formats. His reports include prototype performance reviews, GT class battles, and pit-stop strategy insights for endurance-racing fans.