Monaco GP's Two-Pit Stop Rule Quietly Dropped by FIA – Here's Why

The FIA has quietly removed the mandatory two-pit stop rule that governed the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, ending an experiment that failed to deliver the strategic excitement it promised. Instead of creating more overtaking, the regulation allowed teams to manipulate the race, leading to its quiet deletion from the sporting regulations earlier this year.

Why it matters:

Monaco has long been criticized for processional racing where Saturday qualifying decides the winner. The two-stop mandate was an attempt to inject strategy, but it backfired, prompting the FIA to abandon the idea before the 2026 season. With the new technical regulations introducing lighter and more agile cars, there is renewed hope for better racing around the streets of Monte Carlo.

The details:

• The rule required all drivers to make at least two pit stops during the 78-lap race, up from the typical one.
• Rather than creating unpredictable strategies, it enabled teams to use their second driver as a blocker, allowing the lead driver to pit twice without losing track position. Racing Bulls executed this perfectly, helping Isack Hadjar finish sixth and Liam Lawson eighth.
• George Russell deliberately cut the Nouvelle Chicane to pass Alex Albon, accepting a five-second penalty rather than being stuck behind the Williams.
• The F1 Commission opted not to continue the experiment, and the rule was removed before this season.

What's next:

The 2026 regulation overhaul promises cars that are 30 kg lighter and more aerodynamically efficient, potentially improving overtaking at Monaco. The ability to follow closely could make the first corner and the chicane after the tunnel genuine passing opportunities. However, the track's narrow layout remains a fundamental limitation – do not expect miracles. The FIA deserves credit for trying something and having the foresight to scrap it when it didn't work.