Every year, the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most thrilling and talked-about races on the Formula 1 calendar — a dazzling challenge through the tight streets of the principality.

But this year, there’s even more to keep an eye on as the 2025 edition brings some notable rule changes designed to spice up the action and keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Set for Sunday, May 25, this race is the eighth out of 24 in the season, and the FIA is shaking things up with fresh regulations and updates to the iconic circuit itself.

Mandatory Two-Stop Strategy to Shake Things Up

One of the biggest changes for this year is that every driver will have to make two mandatory pit stops during the race — no exceptions, rain or shine.

That means drivers will need to use at least three sets of tyres, switching between at least two different dry compounds if the weather stays clear.

Why the new rule? The FIA wants to encourage teams to try different strategies and, importantly, to open up more chances for overtaking.

Monaco is famous for being tricky to pass on, so this should add an exciting layer of unpredictability.

Circuit Resurfacing for Better Safety and Speed

The narrow, winding streets of Monaco demand a lot from drivers, so the track has seen some key upgrades this year.

Several parts of the circuit have been resurfaced to improve grip and safety — specifically between Turns 4 and 6, Turns 6 and 10, and the stretch from Turn 19 back to Turn 1.

In addition, the safety fencing between Turns 13 and 15 has been enhanced with a new angled section designed to better protect drivers if they lose control in that tricky part of the course.

DRS Zone Stays the Same and Track Limits Tightened

The Drag Reduction System (DRS), a key tool for helping cars pass, will remain unchanged this year.

The detection zone is set 80 metres after Turn 16, with activation 18 metres past Turn 19.

Track limits are also being monitored carefully. If a driver takes the escape road at Turns 10 and 11, they must only rejoin the track when marshals show a green light, keeping re-entries safe for everyone.

Adjusted Team Curfews for Monaco’s Unique Schedule

Monaco is a special event logistically, so the FIA has tweaked the usual team curfew rules to fit the tight schedule of race weekend here.

The specifics of these adjustments have been shared directly with teams to help keep everything running smoothly.

What You Need to Know for Practice, Qualifying, and Race Day

For fans planning to follow the action live or on TV, here are the key timings, all listed in South African Standard Time (SA):

Friday, May 23: Practice 1 from 13:30 to 14:30 and Practice 2 from 17:00 to 18:00
Saturday, May 24: Practice 3 from 12:30 to 13:30 and Qualifying from 16:00 to 17:00
Sunday, May 25: The main race kicks off at 15:00