The Monaco Grand Prix circuit will not undergo changes to its famous layout despite the long-running difficulty of overtaking in Monte Carlo. Automobile Club de Monaco president Michel Boeri has firmly rejected suggestions that sections of the street circuit could be altered, even as Formula 1 continues searching for ways to improve racing at one of its most historic venues.
Monte Carlo is renowned as one of the hardest circuits on the Formula 1 calendar for overtaking. The narrow streets of the Principality, combined with the size of modern F1 cars, frequently turn the race into a procession only a few laps after the start, often continuing through the pit-stop phase and towards the chequered flag. That contrasts with Formula E, where the smaller dimensions of the electric cars allow considerably more movement and unpredictability around similar streets.
Monaco GP layout will remain unchanged
Michel Boeri has now made clear that no alterations are planned for the Monaco Grand Prix layout, putting an end to speculation that modifications could be considered.
Although the circuit configuration has been revised several times since Monaco hosted its first Grand Prix in 1929, the extremely limited space available in the Principality makes any substantial expansion or redesign exceptionally difficult. Land has previously been reclaimed from the sea for construction projects, including the work associated with the Nouvelle Chicane around 40 years ago, but Michel Boeri dismissed the prospect of following a similar route for future circuit changes.
Speaking to Nice-Matin, Michel Boeri said: “It is very important to emphasise that the circuit will not be modified, contrary to what I have heard many people suggest. Demolishing or moving sections would automatically involve another revision of the circuit and would require new FIA homologation.”
The challenge posed by the tight Monaco streets remains part of what makes the venue so distinctive, with previous winners, pole positions and other historical benchmarks available through the Formula 1 circuit records.
Monaco Grand Prix secured on F1 calendar until 2035
Formula 1 has extended the agreement for the Monaco Grand Prix twice over the past two years. The current contract guarantees that the race will remain on the calendar until at least 2035, securing the future of one of the championship’s most historic events.
Michel Boeri believes Liberty Media, Formula 1’s commercial rights holder, understands the importance of keeping Monaco on the schedule. He explained: “They are not here to do charity. They are here to make money. And we are here to give them as little as possible and earn as much as possible. It is a simple and fair competition in an open market.”
The Automobile Club de Monaco president also suggested that the relationship between the two sides had evolved considerably. “Our American friends realised how reactive we could be. Unlike those who continue to call Monaco ‘the merry-go-round’ and would do well to update their way of thinking, we reached an agreement in principle that the Grand Prix is a major attraction for Formula 1. We would not have tolerated being constantly tormented over whether a kerb had two or three corners too many.”
Monaco could rethink its Formula 1 pit-lane area
While the circuit itself is effectively off limits for major changes, one part of the Monaco Grand Prix infrastructure could still be reconsidered. Michel Boeri indicated that organisers may find a way to create additional space around the pit lane, an area that has become increasingly restrictive as Formula 1 operations have expanded.
He explained: “The future of the Grand Prix is secured until 2035, but with this platform and the building that will be constructed above it, we may be able to rethink the starting-grid area and perhaps even extend the contract further. All of this still remains to be defined.”
Michel Boeri acknowledged that the current pit-lane configuration cannot necessarily remain unchanged indefinitely. “It is no secret, for example, that the pit lane will be difficult to maintain for much longer. Space is limited and the garages are not wide enough. And when you do not have enough space on the ground, you build upwards. I can already hear all the objections that will come, but eventually people will understand.”
Monaco overtaking problem remains ahead of 2027 F1 Sprint
Formula 1 has already experimented with regulatory measures designed to create more strategic variation in Monaco. Last year, a rule change required drivers to make two tyre changes during the Grand Prix in an attempt to address the lack of overtaking.
The outcome, however, was an even more static race. Several cars deliberately slowed the pace as part of their strategic approach, prompting criticism from drivers and eventually leading to the rule being abandoned.
The difficulty of passing makes another upcoming change particularly intriguing. Monte Carlo is set to host a Formula 1 Sprint for the first time in 2027, a decision that surprised many given the circuit’s restrictive nature and the limited overtaking opportunities available around the Principality.
With the historic layout staying intact, Formula 1 will therefore enter 2027 with a new competitive format but the same fundamental Monaco challenge. The Sprint will offer the next indication of whether additional track action can produce a different spectacle on the championship’s most glamorous street circuit.
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