P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The mandatory two-pitstop rule will be used again at the Monaco GP in 2026, despite the controversy triggered by its introduction at this year’s F1 race
The Monaco Grand Prix’s controversial two-pitstop rule will be reinstated for the 2026 race despite the uproar surrounding its debut in the previous edition.
Formula 1 introduced this race-specific regulation to inject more excitement into the challenging Monte Carlo circuit by necessitating drivers to make two pit stops for new tires.
The aim was to introduce more unpredictability in a track notorious for limited overtaking opportunities and to prevent races from becoming too predictable and processional.
The move led to controversy as some teams resorted to unconventional team tactics, such as using one car to block rival competitors to gain an advantage for their other car.
Several drivers and teams criticized these tactics, labeling them as race manipulation, and called for a review of the rule to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Despite the pushback, the World Motor Sport Council approved the reintroduction of the two-stop rule for the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, with adjustments to ensure fair competition and prevent manipulation tactics like those witnessed in the previous edition.
This decision will prompt teams and officials to devise strategies to maintain the integrity of the competition, especially given the effectiveness of the controversial tactics employed by some teams in the past race.
