Christian Horner Urges Action After Monaco GP Criticism

Christian Horner has called for changes to the Monaco Grand Prix following widespread criticism of the race’s lack of action last weekend. The Red Bull Racing team principal said that Monaco, which has hosted 72 Formula 1 races, needs to adapt to modern times to maintain its status on the calendar, as outlined in the FIA Circuit Homologation Guidelines.

The 2025 race continued a recent trend, with minimal on-track overtaking and results largely decided during Saturday’s qualifying session. Formula 1 officials attempted to increase excitement this year by requiring drivers to make two pit stops under updated FIA Sporting Regulations, but this measure had little effect on the running order, especially among the top ten finishers.

Monaco’s tight and narrow circuit has always posed challenges for passing, but the current F1 cars—now the widest and longest in history under FIA Technical Regulations—make overtaking even more difficult. Horner pointed out that the cars barely fit side by side on track, causing processional racing and long stints where drivers seem unable to make meaningful moves.

Despite these issues, Horner says the circuit would only need limited changes, perhaps creating one dedicated overtaking zone, to improve the spectacle without losing its unique charm and history.

During post-race interviews, Horner remarked that while everyone values Monaco’s heritage and glamour, even iconic venues should move with the times to keep up with advances in car technology and competition. He also referenced recent land reclamation projects in Monaco, which have already altered aspects of the city over the decades.

According to Horner, minor tweaks could open up opportunities for wheel-to-wheel action without major disruptions to the circuit’s famous layout.

Alex Wurz, chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, also offered potential solutions involving small circuit modifications. The conversation around circuit changes comes as teams and drivers continue to look for ways to ensure more dynamic and unpredictable races.

Many believe that car dimensions play a major part in the current lack of passing, but all agree that something must be done if Monaco wants to stay relevant in Formula 1’s future.

The introduction of the mandatory two-stop strategy was supposed to add uncertainty, but it did little to shake up the results. Most positions stayed unchanged throughout the 78-lap event, except for those affected by pit stops or mechanical problems, as analyzed further in the pit stop rule impact.

Fans and drivers alike expressed disappointment with the lack of on-track battles, calling for changes ahead of next year’s event.

As Formula 1 prepares for upcoming rounds in Spain and Canada, discussions around the future of the Monaco Grand Prix continue among fans, drivers, and officials. The debate highlights the ongoing push between tradition and evolution in the world of motorsport.

Horner’s comments underscore how even the sport’s most historic races must keep pace with developments in car design and racing style to deliver the excitement expected by modern F1 audiences.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.