The possible disappearance of the Monaco Grand Prix divides the paddock
At the end of the contract at the end of the season, the Monaco Grand Prix currently has no guarantee of keeping its place on the 2023 calendar. While some are outraged by the disappearance of the iconic circuit, others see it as an opportunity for renewal for Formula 1.
The Monaco Grand Prix is in jeopardy. As the contract between the race and Formula 1 is set to expire at the end of the season, Nothing guarantees a spot on the 2023 calendar at the most iconic Grand Prix. The FIA is looking to tap into new markets, even if it means neglecting certain European circuits, and Monaco no longer enjoys the same preferential treatment as before. This situation does not please some drivers.”
“It will be a bit shocking, I must admit, if [Monaco] is removed from the calendar,” defends Pierre Gasly. “It is probably the most iconic race in the world. When you talk to people who don’t follow F1, everyone has heard of Monaco for various reasons, whether it’s for the race, the party, or all the excitement surrounding the Grand Prix.”
The Frenchman, who had also passionately defended the French Grand Prix, which is also at the end of its contract, found an ally in Sebastian Vettel. « You don’t want to lose places where you have been going for so long. », the German says. « It would be horrible to lose Melbourne from the calendar, it would be horrible to lose some of the central tracks in Europe. »
« It’s unimaginable, I think, to lose Italy for example, for many reasons, even if they are the ones who pay the least. But yes, it’s something we have to stick to. », the four-time world champion continues.
If Monaco finds itself in the spotlight, it is also due to the fact that the Grand Prix lacks spectacle, as it saw last year’s sad total of zero overtakes. The current Formula 1 cars seem almost unsuited to the legendary circuit, and there is no doubt that the few centimeters and kilos gained this year will not promote entertainment.
However, the Grand Prix continues to inspire longtime fans who were lucky enough to witness Fangio’s first victory in 1950 or Ayrton Senna’s six victories. But Formula 1 is taking a new direction under the leadership of Stefano Domenicali, who aims to conquer new markets, greatly aided by the global success of Drive To Survive.
The economic aspect works against Monaco compared to wealthy organizers from the Middle East or the United States. According to Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, organizers must adapt or disappear.
« I think Monaco should align itself with the same commercial terms as the other Grand Prix and also consider how to adapt the track since our cars have become larger, which makes the race more challenging,” explains the British person. « I would rather have Monaco in the calendar than not have it… but because the sport is bigger than any driver or team, I believe it is also bigger than any Grand Prix.”
Zak Brown will not be among those who will defend Monaco at all costs, and the organizers of the Grand Prix would be wise to follow the advice of the McLaren boss to hope to keep the world’s most prestigious urban circuit on the 2023 calendar.
