Formula 1 Just Made a Huge Deal to Keep Its Most Iconic Race
For a while, it seemed as though the Monaco Grand Prix might not survive the modern Formula 1 calendar. Negotiations dragged, concerns mounted, and every new contract seemed like a temporary fix. That changed in September 2025.
Formula 1 and the Automobile Club de Monaco finalized a long-term extension that secures the race through 2035. This deal protects a historical venue, resolves years of scheduling tension, and reaffirms Monaco’s place in the sport. It’s a practical, financial, and symbolic move in a sport that rarely grants guarantees.
Long-Term Deal Ends Years of Uncertainty
Image via Wikimedia Commons/35mmMan
Monaco first extended its Formula 1 contract in 2024, which kept the race on the calendar until 2031. The new deal adds four more years by pushing the agreement through 2035. The agreement places Monaco among the few circuits with commitments stretching well into the next decade — a group that so far includes only Bahrain, Australia, Austria, and Miami.
This extension comes after several challenging years for Monaco. Organizers had been under pressure to raise their hosting fee, hand over television production rights, and update a circuit often criticized as outdated. Prince Albert II was instrumental in breaking the deadlock, as his direct involvement helped push the negotiations to a resolution.
No Circuit Changes, But a Date Modification
Under the new agreement, Formula 1 will not alter Monaco’s layout. There are no plans to widen corners or add new overtaking zones, as organizers maintain that the city’s tight streets simply don’t allow for significant changes.
However, the round will move to a new calendar slot starting in 2026. Instead of its traditional late-May position, Monaco will run during the first weekend of June. The change prevents overlap with the Indianapolis 500 and helps restructure the start of the European phase of the F1 season.
Hosting Fees and Power Struggles Behind the Scenes
Image via Wikimedia Commons/nrkbeta
Where venues are concerned, it is common knowledge that Monaco has long paid a lower hosting fee. This advantage came under pressure as Formula 1 expanded into more lucrative markets. Liberty Media also pushed for greater control over race operations, which included TV production.
These issues slowed negotiations and raised doubts about Monaco’s future. Prince Albert II’s involvement helped ease tensions and kept the Principality in Formula 1’s long-term plans.
New Format Tested
In 2025, Monaco added a rule requiring drivers to make two pit stops, intended to shake up strategy and create more action on track. The change didn’t deliver — teams largely stuck to predictable patterns, overtaking stayed scarce, and the rule drew criticism from both fans and drivers.
Even with mixed reviews, the rule will return in 2026. Series officials believe the combination of new car regulations and revised strategies could still deliver improvements. The sport continues to search for ways to make the Monaco GP more competitive without altering its layout.