F1 is going through a series of changes. From new cars to new tracks, there is plenty of action in F1. But one topic on everyone’s mind this week is the future of the Monaco GP.
Monaco’s contract with F1 to host the Grand Prix expires this season. With the addition of two new races, including Miami this year and Las Vegas in 2023, there is speculation about the future of the Monaco GP. Several drivers, including McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo, have said they’d like to see the track on the calendar next year.
Monaco Means a Lot to F1
Monaco is a prestigious event on the F1 calendar. It’s the most prestigious event for many racing fans. First held in 1929, this has always been a place where legends are made. Ayrton Senna won this race six times. Michael Schumacher took the chequered flag five times. Lewis Hamilton is a three-time winner of the Monaco GP.
However, one has to admit that the racing has not been as action-packed here like years past. Certainly, F1 cars are getting bigger and faster, making it more difficult to pass on the streets of Monaco. But since it’s the only track that falls below the FIA minimum distance (3.337 km), it still provides a unique challenge to drivers.
Moving on from Monaco would mean moving on from the history and tradition that has shaped Formula One as we know it. In addition, we’re losing a race that is popular among the rich and famous. Above all, it means moving on from one of the most popular circuits in the sport.
This Isn’t Your Dad’s Formula One
Growing up, my dad would always talk about the importance of Monaco. As a kid, he would get up in the morning and watch the races on a black and white TV. In other words, the spectacle of watching these larger-than-life figures racing fast cars halfway around the world in one of the fanciest cities in the world made him an F1 fan. Factor in prominent races like Spa, Suzuka, and Monza, as well as internationally recognized drivers, and F1 found a model for success.
However, F1’s model for success has changed over the years. They’ve pushed growth in the US (new races in Miami and Las Vegas) and the Middle East (new races in Saudi Arabia and Qatar). Moreover, they’ve added sponsors like Crypto.com (based in Singapore), Lenovo (based in China), and Aramco (based in Saudi Arabia) to increase revenue. This season consists of drivers from four different continents, including the first-ever driver from Chin in Zhou Guanyu.
Have these changes made Formula One worst? No. Far from it.
Racing is more competitive than in years past. Every team has at least three points through six races, which is the first time it’s happened since 2018.
TV ratings are up, including major markets like the Netherlands, UK, and the US.
Better racing and TV ratings mean more races. Last year, there were 22 events, the most ever in an F1 season. There are 22 events scheduled for this year, and more are to come.
So, yeah. Things have changed a bit since my dad watched F1 on a black and white TV.
Monaco’s Future Determines The Future of F1
Deal with the devil you know or the devil you don’t.
That’s the predicament F1 currently finds itself. Stick with what has made you successful in the past. Or push forward with new races, new sponsors, and new media ventures. Monaco fits with the former, a race that older fans love and drivers cherish. But, F1 isn’t in the business of appeasing older fans and drivers. They’re in the business of growing revenue. And if they determine they can make more money racing other than Monaco, they will. It’s that simple.
If F1 moves on from Monaco, it will set an example of what’s to come when deciding where to race. With Mexico and Austria’s contracts ending after 2022 and Silverstone’s contract ending in 2024, plenty of historical tracks are still on the potential chopping block.
So, as we launch into another race weekend, there’s plenty at stake for those involved. Because on the off chance this is the last Monaco GP, it will be an emotional day. For drivers, fans, and anyone in F1. It’s a reminder to never take things for granted and enjoy them while it lasts.
Even if that includes some fast cars speeding on the streets halfway across the world.