Lewis Hamilton Expresses Optimism over Two Mandatory Pit Stops at Monaco Grand Prix

Seven-time Formula One World Champion, Lewis Hamilton, believes the new rule mandating two pit stops will make this year’s Monaco Grand Prix a more thrilling spectacle compared to last year’s “uneventful” race. The decision aims to spice up racing at one of the most challenging tracks for overtaking.

Addressing Overtake Issues in Monaco

In previous years, qualifying on Saturday has held significant importance, often resulting in drivers running in order unless interrupted by safety cars or red flags. The new regulation is expected to address this long-standing issue at the Monaco Grand Prix, particularly given the increasing difficulty of overtaking due to the size of current F1 cars.

Hamilton, who will start seventh for Ferrari after a grid drop for impeding Max Verstappen during qualifying, expressed his thoughts on the two pit stop mandate. “I think the two stops should be better than the shite we had last year,” he said. “Last year, the safety car came out on lap 2, and everyone was on one tyre for 70-odd laps. It was an uneventful race.

Hamilton believes that this rule change will introduce more unpredictability to the race, which is crucial for a track like Monaco where overtaking is challenging. “I’m excited to see how different it is,” he added. “I chose two hards, while Charles (Leclerc) chose two mediums. I’m hoping that there’s a benefit to that, but of course, the two McLarens have two hards as well.

Impact on Team Strategies

The new rule has already created more anticipation ahead of the race, with team strategists having to make crucial decisions regarding when to pit. This decision-making process is expected to extend Saturday night discussions for teams up and down the paddock.

Hamilton further commented on the strategic implications, stating, “It’s a discussion you have at the beginning of tonight and tomorrow. You have to rely on the team because you don’t know where everyone is. You also have to have good patience and try not to overtake yourself. That’s why I’ve given myself two hards, so hopefully that gives me a bit more opportunities.

Photos from Monaco GP – Practice & Qualifying