Former F1 Driver Proposes Modifications to Enhance Overtaking at Monaco Grand Prix
Alexander Wurz suggests three changes to the Monaco circuit aimed at increasing overtaking opportunities amid ongoing criticisms of race spectacle.
Alexander Wurz, a former Formula 1 driver and current president of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, has proposed modifications to three key corners of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit in an effort to enhance overtaking opportunities.
This initiative follows widespread commentary regarding the monotony of recent races, despite the introduction of a new pit stop rule requiring drivers to make at least two stops.
The recently concluded Monaco Grand Prix drew criticism for not delivering the excitement anticipated from the rule change.
Wurz's proposals were shared via social media, emphasizing his belief that alterations to the track layout could significantly improve the racing spectacle.
The first suggestion involves relocating the new chicane situated near the tobacco shop.
Wurz contends that moving the chicane further away would challenge drivers more, particularly in defending positions during the race.
This adjustment is supported by Red Bull Racing’s team principal, Christian Horner, who agrees with the need to foster increased competitiveness on the circuit.
The second recommendation focuses on modifying the Rascasse corner.
Wurz suggests moving the apex further outwards alongside widening the track.
He argues that such a change would alter the entry trajectory, allowing for later attacks by drivers, thereby intensifying racing dynamics.
This adjustment, described as relatively easy to implement, is seen as a way to generate more battles among competitors.
Wurz's final proposal advocates for widening the entry and exit points of the Fairmont corner.
By facilitating more aggressive maneuvering options, Wurz believes this adjustment would create further opportunities for overtaking, with drivers being compelled to defend their positions more vigorously as a result.
In the context of these discussions, it has been noted that the Monaco circuit's configuration has been consistently evaluated by the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM), the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and the Monaco government.
Any potential modifications require careful consideration of feasibility, safety, and the impact on the event's traditional character.
Michel Boeri, president of the ACM, acknowledged that while the idea of altering the circuit has merit, it ultimately hinges on government consultation and assessment of necessity.
Additionally, forthcoming changes to the size of Formula 1 cars in 2026, reducing the width and wheelbase of vehicles, may influence racing dynamics further.
In contrast, the Formula E series, which utilizes smaller cars and specific rules such as an 'attack mode' that temporarily boosts speed, recorded nearly 200 overtakes during the Monaco E-Prix in 2025, highlighting the differences in race strategy and competition within different motorsport categories.
This initiative follows widespread commentary regarding the monotony of recent races, despite the introduction of a new pit stop rule requiring drivers to make at least two stops.
The recently concluded Monaco Grand Prix drew criticism for not delivering the excitement anticipated from the rule change.
Wurz's proposals were shared via social media, emphasizing his belief that alterations to the track layout could significantly improve the racing spectacle.
The first suggestion involves relocating the new chicane situated near the tobacco shop.
Wurz contends that moving the chicane further away would challenge drivers more, particularly in defending positions during the race.
This adjustment is supported by Red Bull Racing’s team principal, Christian Horner, who agrees with the need to foster increased competitiveness on the circuit.
The second recommendation focuses on modifying the Rascasse corner.
Wurz suggests moving the apex further outwards alongside widening the track.
He argues that such a change would alter the entry trajectory, allowing for later attacks by drivers, thereby intensifying racing dynamics.
This adjustment, described as relatively easy to implement, is seen as a way to generate more battles among competitors.
Wurz's final proposal advocates for widening the entry and exit points of the Fairmont corner.
By facilitating more aggressive maneuvering options, Wurz believes this adjustment would create further opportunities for overtaking, with drivers being compelled to defend their positions more vigorously as a result.
In the context of these discussions, it has been noted that the Monaco circuit's configuration has been consistently evaluated by the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM), the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and the Monaco government.
Any potential modifications require careful consideration of feasibility, safety, and the impact on the event's traditional character.
Michel Boeri, president of the ACM, acknowledged that while the idea of altering the circuit has merit, it ultimately hinges on government consultation and assessment of necessity.
Additionally, forthcoming changes to the size of Formula 1 cars in 2026, reducing the width and wheelbase of vehicles, may influence racing dynamics further.
In contrast, the Formula E series, which utilizes smaller cars and specific rules such as an 'attack mode' that temporarily boosts speed, recorded nearly 200 overtakes during the Monaco E-Prix in 2025, highlighting the differences in race strategy and competition within different motorsport categories.
