The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has officially introduced a major rule change for the Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco, making double pit stops mandatory for all teams. This decision, long discussed within the sport, marks a significant shift in race strategy and comes in direct response to widespread criticism that the Monaco Grand Prix, while iconic, often lacks excitement when it comes to overtaking opportunities and on-track action.
To make for a more exhilarating and challenging race, Formula 1 drivers will now have to make at least two pit stops at the Monaco Grand Prix according to a new ruling handed down this week by the FIA and formally ratified by the World Motor Sport Council on 26th February.
The newly enforced regulation aims to inject more spice into the race by requiring teams to make at least two pit stops, regardless of weather conditions. The change was initially proposed by the F1 Commission, a body comprised of representatives from teams, the FIA and Formula One Management, before receiving final approval in Geneva.
“This decision, which has been in the works for some time, applies exclusively to the Monaco Grand Prix,” confirmed a representative for the Automobile Club de Monaco. “It aligns with the shared vision of Formula 1, the FIA and the ACM to enhance the spectacle for drivers, spectators and global television audiences alike. We will see the impact of this rule at the 82nd Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco in May 2025.”
The FIA announced the new rule in a press release, stating, “Following recent discussions in the F1 Commission, a specific requirement for the Monaco Grand Prix has been approved mandating the use of at least three sets of tyres in the race, with a minimum of two different tyre compounds to be used if it’s a dry race.”
Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, who clinched victory at his home race in 2024, has publicly welcomed the idea, saying it could bring much-needed strategy into play.
“I think it will definitely help the Sunday, especially with strategy. The excitement on Sunday is maybe a bit less than what you will hope. The Saturday is incredible but the Sunday maybe needs a little bit of spice and hopefully this will give it,” he told Sky Sports.
See more: F1: Charles Leclerc brings home the win at the Monaco Grand Prix
Though he is for the rule, he noted there should be room for change if it doesn’t go to plan.
“We’ve got to be open-minded,” he added. “If it’s the direction that we are going to take, then we need to see if that actually makes a difference or not and be open to change back if that’s not the right solution.”
The effectiveness of this change remains to be seen, but all eyes will be on the streets of the Principality from 22nd to 25th May to see if its impact on one of the most glamourous and prestigious events in motorsport is here to stay, or just a passing fancy.
Read related:
All the major motorsport events in Monaco in 2025 and beyond
Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.
Photo source: Scuderia Ferrari Media Centre