F1, Monaco, 'discussing' the issues related to the Monaco GP.

F1, Monaco, 'discussing' the issues related to the Monaco GP.

      "The Monaco event has been fantastic,"

      Stefano Domenicali acknowledges that Formula 1 is currently addressing the issues surrounding the Monaco GP. Despite the unexciting and processional nature of the 2024 race on the narrow, twisting streets, the sport's response—mandating two-stop strategies—led to what some might argue was an even less favorable result. Nevertheless, F1 CEO Domenicali remains optimistic.

      "The Monaco event has been fantastic," he shared with Sky. "This event embodies what Formula 1 aims for, and that's truly wonderful."

      The challenge lies in the fact that, due to the speed, size, and weight of today's cars, compounded by the slow and narrow characteristics of the barrier-lined street circuit, overtaking has become nearly impossible. This situation resulted in some drivers intentionally delaying large groups of cars so that their teammates in front could gain an advantage in the race.

      Alex Wurz, a former F1 driver who now leads his own circuit design firm, WurzDesign, has suggested three main modifications to the circuit—including widening and reshaping the Rascasse corner and the iconic hairpin. However, he admits that his proposal for the harbour chicane would necessitate a "larger civil engineering" effort.

      Domenicali asserts that Wurz’s suggestions are not unprecedented. "I think that for over 75 years, there have been attempts to implement changes," the Italian noted. "We are in discussions with the city, but as you can imagine, it's not an easy task. We recognize that the street's width and the size of the cars pose challenges, so we are trying to focus attention on that."

      He even identifies some benefits to the mandatory two-stop strategy. "It was exciting to see leading up to the event how many people thought there would be stops on the first lap," Domenicali recounted, "creating a lot of dialogue, so there was a degree of confusion."

      "I believe it was a good initiative, and the focus on it was certainly there."

      Regarding future steps, he emphasized that "the positive aspect is that we are discussing it."

      "Let’s celebrate the event that has ultimately been spectacular," Domenicali concluded.

Other articles

F1, Monaco, 'discussing' the issues related to the Monaco GP.

Formula 1 | Stefano Domenicali acknowledges that discussions are taking place regarding the issues surrounding the Monaco GP, despite the disappointing and uneventful nature of the 2024 race on (...)