Formula 1 Driver George Russell Suggests Drastic Changes to Monaco Grand Prix Format

After years of enduring processions at the Monaco Grand Prix, Formula 1 (F1) and the FIA decided to trial a rules experiment by mandating the use of three tire sets. The aim was to create more strategic variance and jeopardy, but the top four qualifiers still finished in their original positions, while position changes were primarily due to some drivers intentionally slowing down to create gaps for their teammates.

The Two-Stop Experiment Fails to Deliver Expected Results

George Russell, a Mercedes driver, expressed his frustration as he tried to fight his way back into the points after a technical issue in qualifying. Stuck behind Alex Albon, who was cruising at a slower pace, Russell decided to straight-line the chicane and take a penalty rather than giving up the position. However, the stewards escalated the usual 10-second penalty to a drive-through.

Despite appreciating F1’s efforts to try something different, Russell believes a more radical shakeup is necessary to revitalize the race, which has become outdated as it approaches its 100th birthday. “We definitely need to have a real think about what the solution is here in Monaco,” Russell sighed after finishing behind both Williams cars. “I appreciate trying something this year in the two-stop. Clearly, it did not work at all.

A Qualifying Race Instead of a Grand Prix?

For drivers, qualifying is the most exhilarating moment of the weekend. Russell suggests that if we accept that, there should be no race, and instead, it could be a qualifying race on Saturday, followed by another on Sunday. The pole position winner would receive some points and a trophy, while the Sunday winner would earn more points.

Russell believes this format would cater to what both drivers and spectators enjoy most. However, he acknowledges that 99% of the people in Monaco are there for the glamour and champagne on yachts, so they may not care about the race itself.

The Challenge of Driving at Monaco

Driving four seconds off the pace at Monaco is relatively easy, as an F2 car could potentially hold up an F1 car. Russell admits he attempted to clear Albon out of frustration because he was out of the points and had missed the opportunity to enjoy Monaco during qualifying. He found the last 25 laps to be the most fun he’d had all weekend, as he pushed his limits and tested himself.

Explaining his unconventional move, Russell said, “I’ve got to be honest, I didn’t really care because I was out of the points. I just wanted to enjoy Monaco. I wanted to drive this track full gas. It’s one of the best circuits in the world.