Did Monaco GP’s Pitstop Rule Succeed? Explore Better Ideas

The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix introduced a new rule to make the race less predictable and more exciting after criticism that the previous event was too much of a procession. Every driver was required to use three sets of tires, forcing two pitstops unless a red flag intervened.

This decision sparked much discussion among drivers, teams, and fans, who were divided on whether it significantly changed the on-track action.

Teams adopted different strategies under the new rule.

Early in the race, Red Bull made an aggressive early stop with Yuki Tsunoda, but it didn’t yield the expected benefits.

Williams and Racing Bulls used team tactics effectively, securing double points finishes, while Mercedes stayed conservative and failed to score points.

Some believed the rule rewarded strong teamwork and clever thinking, but others felt it made the sport feel more artificial. Several drivers shared their concerns after the race.

Alexander Albon described racing under the rule as less than ideal. Carlos Sainz said the tactics “manipulated” the race but were necessary for scoring points.

Race winner Lando Norris questioned if F1 should head toward “manufactured races.” Max Verstappen joked about the situation, comparing it to Mario Kart and envisioning bananas being thrown on track next.

Despite the new pitstop rule, overtaking remained nearly impossible on Monaco’s tight streets. Drivers backed up the field to assist teammates, controlling the pace and creating gaps.

Fernando Alonso had previously used similar tactics in 2022 to slow the pack and conserve tires, highlighting Monaco’s unique nature in promoting such strategies regardless of pitstop rules.

The rule change increased pitstops and chaos potential but didn’t fix the fundamental problem: cars are simply too large for easy passing.

Some paddock insiders proposed possible solutions to enhance the race. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff suggested minimum lap-time rules to prevent drivers from controlling the pace by going too slow.

Red Bull’s Christian Horner believed that altering Monaco’s layout—such as adding braking zones or making cars smaller—was the only real fix. However, Monaco’s historic streets and surrounding cityscape limit such renovation possibilities.

The FIA plans to make F1 cars 20 cm shorter and 10 cm narrower in 2026 under updated technical regulations, but many doubt this will significantly improve overtaking at Monaco.

For now, most agree that Monaco’s true excitement lies in qualifying. Drivers and fans say a qualifying lap pushed to the limit on this circuit is unlike any other on the F1 calendar.

Even if the Sunday race remains somewhat processional, Monaco’s spectacle and rich history ensure its place on the schedule through at least 2031.

While the two-pitstop rule mixed strategies and added tension, it failed to solve the event’s biggest challenge.

As discussions about future rule changes continue, Monaco’s tradition and distinct challenges guarantee its enduring role in Formula 1.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff’s suggestion of minimum lap-time rules highlights one possible way to address the pacing issues.

Max Verstappen’s humorous take on the race rules likening it to Mario Kart adds levity to the tactical debate. More on Verstappen’s views can be found here.

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.