Criticism Mounts Over New Monaco Grand Prix Regulation

The highly anticipated 2025 Monaco Grand Prix left both drivers and spectators disillusioned after the implementation of a mandated two-stop rule. This change aimed to inject excitement into the prestigious race around the streets of Monte Carlo, often criticized for its lack of overtaking opportunities due to the size of current vehicles. However, the reality was far from this objective, leading to team strategies that saw drivers intentionally slowing down to create large gaps, allowing their teammates ahead to pit more efficiently.

Martin Brundle’s Initial Reaction

Former Formula 1 driver and Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle voiced his immediate concerns during the race, stating, “I don’t like these regulations. I’m not liking it. I don’t want to see drivers all the way through the field playing a game. This is about excellence, about the pinnacle of motorsport and I don’t like to see so many drivers going slowly.

Fan Reactions

Fans have been swift in sharing their thoughts on the new rule. In response to an Autosport post, one fan wrote, “This might have killed the Monaco Grand Prix, let’s be honest, it was horrible.” Others echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Racing is pretty bad at Monaco. The cars purposely going slow was not a good look,” and “It was without doubt the most ridiculous GP ever. Boring and never again. Martin [Brundle] is right. If you’re gonna do a 2 stop, the first has to be within the first 20 laps or so. Never again.

Another fan commented, “There were elements of the two-stop that should work but the biggest cause for the lack of racing is the size of these cars – it was the same thing at Suzuka this year.” Amongst the criticism, suggestions for improvements for next year’s race emerged. “Get rid of turn 10 & 11 & make it a DRS zone,” one fan proposed. Another commenter also called for another DRS zone, stating: “We want to see pure racing. How about introducing another DRS halfway through the tunnel and remove the 2 corners after that. Also can widen the track in that segment if possible.

Mixed Feelings on the Two-Stop Minimum Rule

Despite overall negative feedback, some felt the two-stop minimum rule should remain, albeit with adjustments. “Better than a one stopper. But they can tweak it. Keep the 2 stop minimum.” Other reactions included: “No. In fact, it makes me wonder why Monaco is still in circuit,” and “They can ask them to do 20 pit stops each , still there won’t be any overtakes in Monaco. Virtually no one gained a position the whole race.

We’ve seen some ‘interesting’ strategy choices e.g. Mercedes, but that’s about it really.” Although the feedback on the post was predominantly negative, there were some who felt the two-stop minimum rule should stay, albeit with some tweaks.