Formula One drivers Max Verstappen and George Russell have expressed their disappointment with the mandatory pit stops introduced for this year’s Monaco Grand Prix. The two-stop strategy was aimed at creating strategic interest, but it failed to achieve its goal.
The policy change resulted in a lack of overtakes throughout the 78-lap race. Verstappen, who led into the final third, had to take his final pit stop while Lando Norris claimed victory. Russell, who qualified 14th after an electrical problem, was stuck behind slow Williams cars and struggled to pass.
Verstappen compared the Monaco Grand Prix to Mario Kart, stating that it has become too focused on tyre management rather than racing. Russell suggested changing the format to a qualifying weekend, where drivers compete for points over two separate sessions. He believes this would make the event more exciting, especially for fans who don’t attend in person.
Russell’s comment highlights the fundamental problem with Monaco Grand Prix – modern F1 cars are too big and heavy to pass one another on the narrow streets of Monte Carlo. The lack of overtakes raises questions about the future of the Monaco Grand Prix and whether it needs significant changes to maintain its appeal.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/25/max-verstappen-george-russell-red-bull-mercedes-formula-one-f1-monaco-grand-prix