The Monaco Grand Prix, the Formula 1 Crown Jewel, is quickly approaching this weekend, May 23-25, 2025, and the expectations are very high. However, a series of unexpected details shook Paddock, generating a whirlwind of speculation about whether this edition will be an unforgettable spectacle or total chaos. With a new rule of two uncertain stops and climate forecasts, Monaco promises to be a strategic battlefield where each decision can change the course of the race. What we can expect and which team takes advantage of this circuit where qualification is essential?
For the first time in the history of the Monaco Grand Prix, the FIA introduced a rule that requires pilots to make at least two pit stops during the 78 -lap race, using at least three tire games. This measure, designed to break the monotony of the single stop strategies that have dominated in recent years, seeks to inject emotion and variability into a circuit where overtaking are almost impossible. According to Sky Sports F1 strategy expert Bernie Collins, this rule can revolutionize races, as teams will have to rethink their tactics from scratch without historical data to consult.
The rule requires drivers to use at least two different compounds of Slick tires (usually medium and hard) under dry conditions, adding a layer of complexity. However, the possibility of red -sided red flags, common in Monaco, can disrupt the plans. As Collins explained, a red flag on the first lap, such as the accident of Sergio Perez and Kevin Magnussen in 2024, may allow tire exchanges to be accounted for as a stop, reducing the need for green flag pit stops. This opens doors to unpredictable and risky strategies, where a bold movement can catapult a pilot from the end of the grid to the top.
Meteorological predictions add another explosive ingredient to the mixture. The weekend in Monte Carlo is expected to be quite dry, with temperatures around 22 ° C, but there is 50% chance of rain during the qualification on Saturday. A wet qualification session on Monaco’s narrow streets can be absolute chaos, with pilots having difficulty finding grip on a circuit where the smallest error ends in barriers. Charles Leclerc, the local hero who broke the Red Bull sequence in 2024, expressed concern about his Ferrari’s weaknesses in this circuit, but also saw an opportunity if the rain scolds the cards.
In case of rain, the rule of the two stops will still be applied, which further complicates strategic decisions. McLaren e Ferrari, equipes com bons desempenhos nos pit stops, podem se beneficiar da velocidade de seus pit stops, enquanto a Mercedes, de acordo com George Russell, pode sofrer devido à falta de ritmo de corrida em comparação à velocidade de qualificação.
With the qualification being historically the decisive factor in Monaco, teams such as Red Bull and McLaren, led by Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, are the favorite. The current champion Verstappen believes that the new rule will “spice up” the races, while Norris, just 13 points behind teammate Oscar Pistri in the championship, is confident of McLaren’s strength in technical circuits. However, Ferrari, with its pit stop domain and Leclerc’s motivation to shine at home, cannot be discarded.
On the other hand, middle -table teams like Williams and Alpine see the new rule as an opportunity to surprise. Carlos Sainz and Pierre Gasly pointed out that extra stops could allow strategic movements that would benefit pilots who would not drop in the first lines.
The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix is configured as a turnaround point. The combination of an innovative rule and the threat of rain can transform a traditionally predictable race into a strategic thriller. Is it a logistical disaster or an unforgettable spectacle? We will not know until the checkered flag falls on Sunday. Follow the live action on Sky Sports F1 and don’t miss the drama on the streets of Monte Carlo.
