The Monaco Grand Prix will remain a cornerstone of the Formula 1 calendar until at least 2031, following the signing of a six-year extension. This agreement secures the future of one of the sport’s most iconic races, which has been a fixture on the F1 calendar nearly every year since 1955, with only the 2020 season missing due to Covid.
Despite concerns about the narrow streets of Monte Carlo and the limited overtaking opportunities on the tight circuit, F1 and the Automobile Club of Monaco have reached an understanding, including adjustments to broadcast rights and on-track advertising that align with Formula 1’s demands for modernization.
As part of the deal, starting in 2026, the Monaco Grand Prix will shift from its traditional last weekend in May to the first full weekend in June. Although F1 has not provided an official explanation for the change, speculation suggests it could be related to calendar restructuring, potentially allowing the Canadian Grand Prix to move from June to May, pairing it with the Miami Grand Prix for logistical sustainability.
Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali expressed excitement about the extended partnership, highlighting the unique history and prestige of the Monaco race: “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.”
The circuit’s historic charm remains intact despite calls for updates to improve race quality. However, modifications to the layout have been deemed unfeasible due to the principality’s spatial limitations. The Automobile Club of Monaco’s president, Michel Boeri, underscored the importance of the race to the principality, stating: “The signing of this new agreement with the Formula One Group until 2031 not only confirms the strength of our relationship but reaffirms our commitment to offering all visitors an unrivaled, first-class experience at race weekends.”
The 2024 Monaco Grand Prix held even more significance, with local hero Charles Leclerc winning the race, marking the first victory by a Monegasque driver since 1931. This triumph underscored the event’s legacy, as Leclerc himself had previously voiced opposition to any plans to drop Monaco from the calendar.
Despite its glamor and tradition, Monaco has faced challenges in F1’s evolving landscape, where Liberty Media’s expansion strategy has brought a record 24 races to the 2024 season. With limited viewing capacity and relatively lower hosting fees, Monaco’s long-term future appeared uncertain until this agreement was finalized. Now, it will continue to captivate global audiences for years to come, maintaining its status as a prestigious destination for F1 fans worldwide.
