Senior F1 Figure Reveals Exciting Monaco GP Layout Changes

The Monaco Grand Prix has always offered a special kind of challenge for Formula 1 drivers, with its tight streets and limited opportunities for overtaking. Every detail matters here, from car setup to the custom race suits drivers rely on for comfort and focus. Now, Alex Wurz, chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, has presented fresh ideas that could shake up the historic circuit, aiming to create more on-track battles.

The famous hairpin at Turn 6, once known as Loews and now called Fairmont, is a key part of his proposal. Wurz suggests that widening the entry on the inside by just over two meters would allow drivers coming down the hill a much better chance to attempt a move.

He also points out that more space at the exit, with asphalt up to the wall and no kerb, would let two cars continue fighting on the way out. These changes, he says, would not affect the classic racing line but would force the lead car to defend, possibly slowing them and creating new opportunities for action.

At Turn 10, the Nouvelle Chicane, Wurz imagines stretching the straight after the tunnel by an extra 80 meters before forcing drivers into a sharp 90-degree left. In its current form, this section is the best overtaking spot at Monaco, but actual passes at the chicane remain rare.

By extending the straight, drivers would have a longer run and brake harder, which could make it harder for the lead car to hold onto its position. Wurz believes, based on his conversations with drivers and his own experiences, that these physical changes are possible while adhering to FIA safety standards, even in a city as cramped as Monaco. These potential modifications are part of broader Monaco F1 track changes being discussed to improve racing.

The Tabac corner at Turn 12, often highlighted as a favorite among drivers, is another focus. Wurz wants to keep its character and ensure it’s not just a flat-out dash, maintaining the challenge that has made it famous over the years.

In his view, these adjustments would give fans a better spectacle without taking away what makes this street course unique.

One of the last areas set for change is Turn 17, better known as Rascasse. Wurz’s plan would move the apex farther out, by about two or three meters, and widen the exit.

This approach could let two cars run side by side as they attack the final part of the lap. If the car in the lead tries to cover the inside, it may exit slower, bunching up the pack behind and raising the chance for close racing.

Wurz describes this as a “small trick” that could ramp up the pressure and lead to more wheel-to-wheel moments.

Past attempts to spice up the Monaco race have not brought major results. For example, a mandatory two-stop rule for the grand prix did little to boost on-track suspense, as seen with the Monaco GP pitstop rule.

Despite the event’s long contract, which runs to 2031, complaints about a lack of overtaking remain, especially as F1 cars have grown wider and heavier under current FIA technical regulations. The circuit’s narrow layout, unchanged in many ways since the early 1950s, simply does not fit the modern machines.

Looking ahead, F1 is set to reduce car dimensions in 2026 as outlined in Formula 1’s 2026 technical plans, dropping the wheelbase from 3,600mm to 3,400mm and narrowing the width by 100mm. Weight is also expected to fall by 4%.

These moves could make it easier for drivers to race closer, but officials and fans alike understand that only a fresh approach to the Monaco track itself is likely to really shake up the order.

The conversation around Monaco’s future continues, as drivers and rule-makers weigh ideas to revive passing chances and keep this race among the most anticipated in the F1 calendar. For now, all eyes are on whether these suggested changes might finally help drivers find just a bit more room to overtake in one of motorsport’s most iconic locations.

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.