F1 drivers are concerned about potential tactics regarding the two-stop rule in Monaco.

      Formula 1 insiders are concerned that the unique rule for Monaco, which requires drivers to make two pit stops during the race on Sunday, might be taken advantage of by some teams. The intention behind this rule is to encourage the use of three different tire sets, potentially adding excitement to the increasingly predictable nature of the race on the narrow and winding streets of the Principality. Championship leader Oscar Piastri noted, "Last year, the leader could drive ten seconds slower per lap if they wanted to. That won't be possible this time, and drivers will really need to create a gap from the rest. There are numerous strategy options now."

      However, veteran driver Nico Hulkenberg believes that F1 is reacting too quickly. "I didn’t really think there was a need for change," stated the Sauber racer. "Monaco has always been like this; overtaking has always been tough." Alex Albon from Williams acknowledges the aim is to "mix things up" in terms of strategy and unpredictability, but he also recognizes that the decision might backfire. "The main worry is that this could lead to all drivers rushing to the pits on the first lap, in an attempt to get onto a clearer track later," he remarked. "All the strategists will freely admit that they have no idea where this will lead or how teammates will cooperate with this rule."

      Even Pirelli's Mario Isola conceded that the potential for teams to exploit the situation exists. "The safety car is quite frequent in Monaco," he told Soy Motor. "There’s a risk that drivers could pit twice in consecutive laps, which would be completely legal." Carlos Sainz shares Albon's concerns, suggesting that some teams might see the unique rule as an opportunistic advantage. "I think drivers might be pushed to accelerate a bit more," he noted, "which is positive. However, I am slightly worried about teams manipulating their drivers’ pace to assist their teammates. I hope there won’t be excessive trickery with that."