F1 Considers Mandatory Two-Stop Races to Boost Strategy

Formula 1 is reportedly considering a significant rule change that would make all Grands Prix mandatory two-stop races. This comes as strategic variations have declined, with most teams favoring a single-stop strategy in recent seasons.

Why it matters:

F1's move to enforce two-stop races aims to inject more strategic intrigue and unpredictability back into Grands Prix, combating the often processional nature of one-stop races. For fans, this could mean more varied race outcomes and more dynamic on-track action, moving away from a predictable tire strategy that has sometimes stifled racing.

The Details:

• Motorsport Italy reports that the F1 Commission is set to discuss making two-stop races compulsory.
• This potential rule change would require drivers to use all three dry tire compounds (Hard, Medium, Soft) during a race.
• A crucial caveat being discussed is that each set of tires may be limited to a maximum of 45% of the total race distance, further preventing teams from simply running long stints on one compound.
• This isn't the first time F1 has intervened with tire strategy for specific events. For instance, a mandatory two-stop was introduced for the 2025 Monaco GP following the 2024 race where an early red flag allowed nearly the entire field to switch tires, eliminating in-race stops.
• Similarly, the 2023 Qatar GP saw stint limits enforced due to safety concerns regarding tire integrity under extreme conditions, showcasing F1's willingness to adapt rules for competitive and safety reasons.

The big picture:

The sport has been experimenting with minor changes, such as increasing pit-lane speed limits, to encourage more strategic diversity. However, these have not significantly altered the prevalence of one-stop races. A mandatory two-stop rule would be a more drastic intervention, directly addressing the core issue of static race strategies. This reflects F1's ongoing efforts to enhance the spectacle and challenge engineers and drivers alike.

What's next:

The discussions within the F1 Commission will determine the feasibility and implementation of such a radical change. If approved, it would mark a significant shift in how teams approach race weekends, demanding more adaptable strategies and potentially leading to more thrilling finishes. The implications for tire manufacturers like Pirelli would also be considerable, requiring potentially different tire constructions or allocations to accommodate the new rules.