FIA imposes mandatory two-stop strategy in Monaco

The FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) held its first meeting of the year on February 26, chaired by Mohammed Ben Sulayem. One of the most relevant announcements was the approval of a mandatory two-stop strategy for the Monaco Grand Prix, aiming to improve race dynamics and expand strategic options for teams.

New two-stop rule in Monaco

The FIA has determined that all drivers must make a minimum of two pit stops during the Monaco Grand Prix, regardless of weather conditions. This measure seeks to prevent overly conservative strategies and create more overtaking opportunities through variations in tire selection.

The regulations state that, in dry race conditions, competitors must use at least three sets of tires and two different compounds. This regulation was discussed within the Formula 1 Commission before receiving final approval from the WMSC.

Impact on team strategy

The Monaco circuit is known for its overtaking difficulty, which has often led to one-stop strategies to minimize risks. With this new regulation, teams will have to rethink their approach, considering factors such as tire wear and the optimal timing for pit stops.

Additional stops could create shifts in race order, promoting greater variability in results and forcing drivers to better manage their race pace and tire usage.

Vision 2030 and other FIA announcements

During the WMSC meeting, updates were also presented on the Vision 2030 plan, focused on the development of motorsport over the next five years. Priorities include improving accessibility, strengthening regulations, and promoting sustainability in FIA-sanctioned competitions.

Additionally, the FIA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the code of conduct in motorsport, emphasizing the importance of respect and proper behavior among competitors. It was also confirmed that ABB will remain the charging supplier for the next-generation GEN4 single-seaters in Formula E.

The implementation of the two-stop strategy in Monaco represents a significant adjustment in the regulations, aiming to make the competition more dynamic and strategic, encouraging new tactics from the teams.