Max Verstappen: « Two stops? It could finally spice up Monaco »
At a press conference in Monaco, Max Verstappen was cautious about Red Bull's performance on the narrow streets of the Principality. However, he welcomes the introduction of a mandatory two-stop strategy, hoping that it will add spectacle to a race often criticized for its lack of action.
An unprecedented strategy for Monaco. The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix introduces a strategic novelty: two mandatory pit stops. A decision by the FIA aimed at energizing a race where overtaking is rare.
Max Verstappen, questioned about this, stated:
« I think it will probably spice things up a bit more. Normally, with just one stop, once you have a good pit stop and everything goes well, you drive to the end. Maybe with two stops, it can create something different, people taking chances, guessing when is the right time to stop, and hopefully, that will make the race a bit more interesting. »
Performances to watch
Despite his recent victory in Imola, Verstappen remains cautious about Red Bull’s performance in Monaco:
Last year, it was very difficult for us. I don’t expect it to be much easier this time, as there are many low-speed corners, but we will see.
The triple world champion emphasizes that the characteristics of the Monaco circuit are not the most favorable for his car, but he remains optimistic about possible adjustments.
A revived championship
With his victory in Imola, Verstappen ended Oscar Piastri’s streak of three consecutive wins. He now has a total of 124 points, placing him third in the championship behind Piastri (146) and Norris (133). This victory revives the battle for the title, and Monaco could be an important strategic turning point.
Monaco, a Scene of Change?
In a championship tighter than ever, the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix could serve as a tipping point. While the Principality is often criticized for its lack of on-track excitement, the FIA’s decision to impose two pit stops could disrupt established dynamics. This change forces teams to completely rethink their strategies and opens the door to risky but potentially rewarding gambles. In a setting where mistakes are unforgiving, any hesitation in the pits could be costly.
Max Verstappen, seeking a comeback in the championship after a less dominant start to the season than usual, sees this as an opportunity to close the gap with McLaren’s Piastri and Norris. But in the narrow streets of Monte Carlo, pure performance isn’t enough: tactical audacity, mechanical reliability, and constant focus are also required. As this legendary event approaches, one certainty emerges: the 2025 championship is far from decided, and Monaco could well write a new decisive chapter.
