Monaco’s unique challenges and glamour endure, but limited overtaking sparks debate over whether the race has become dull

 The Monaco Grand Prix has long been synonymous with glitz, glamour, and historic prestige, making it one of Formula 1’s most iconic events. Since its inception in 1929 and inclusion on the F1 calendar from 1950, Monaco has earned its place alongside the Indianapolis 500 and Le Mans as part of motorsport’s unofficial triple crown. Yet, in recent years, questions have arisen about whether the race itself has lost some of its excitement.

The winding, narrow streets of Monte Carlo present a unique test for drivers, with tight corners and a famous mile-long tunnel. However, modern Formula 1 cars have grown larger and wider, reducing overtaking opportunities on this unforgiving circuit. On average, the Monaco GP features just 10 overtakes per race, the lowest among all tracks over the last decade.

The 2024 race perfectly illustrated this, with the top 10 finishing in the exact order they started and only four overtakes recorded over 78 laps. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc took pole position and led comfortably to victory, while four-time champion Max Verstappen candidly described the race as “really boring.” Rain in previous years had spiced things up, producing more overtakes—22 in 2023 and 13 in 2022—but dry races tend to be processional.

Saturday qualifying remains the weekend’s highlight, often more thrilling than the race itself, as the grid positions there heavily determine the final outcome. The difficulty of passing on race day means that drivers must focus on mastering a flawless qualifying lap.

Despite this, many drivers still regard Monaco as a special event. Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso calls it “unique” and one of the “best moments of the season.” He admits Sundays can sometimes feel dull because there’s little room to race wheel-to-wheel, but the challenge of just finishing the race is significant.

Lando Norris reflects a similar view, acknowledging it’s not the most exciting race but insisting it “still means just as much” to every driver and team member. Williams’ Alex Albon agrees, noting that “Saturday is what makes it special,” when drivers experience the adrenaline of pushing the car to its limit on the tight street circuit.

The glamour and spectacle surrounding the race — yachts lining the harbour, star-studded guests, and the stunning backdrop of Monaco itself — continue to draw huge interest. However, the event has faced criticism for not matching the speed and overtaking spectacle of other venues. This led to a controversial new rule in 2025 requiring at least two pit stops in the race to increase strategic variation and excitement.

Monaco’s future on the calendar was briefly in doubt when its contract was due to expire this year. Organisers weighed dropping the race due to its perceived lack of on-track action. Yet, a new six-year deal was secured in 2024, and the event will move from its traditional May date to early June from 2026.

Monaco’s broadcast coverage also underwent changes, with Formula One Management taking over television production in 2023, aligning it more closely with other races.

F1 president Stefano Domenicali remains upbeat, saying: “The streets of Monte Carlo are unique and a famous part of Formula 1, and the Monaco Grand Prix remains a race that all drivers dream of winning.”

Ultimately, the Monaco Grand Prix is a race like no other — steeped in history, glamour, and unparalleled challenge. While it may not always deliver wheel-to-wheel battles, it continues to test driver skill and bravery, offering moments of brilliance amid the spectacle. Whether or not the race is “boring” may depend on what fans value most: pure racing or the magic of a truly iconic sporting event.