The possible disappearance of the Monaco Grand Prix divides the paddock
“It will be a little shocking I have to admit if [Monaco] is removed from the calendar. »defended Pierre Gasly. “It’s probably the most iconic race in the world. When you talk to people who don’t follow F1, everyone has heard of Monaco for a number of reasons, whether it’s the racing, the partying or all the excitement that surrounds the Grand Prix. »
The Frenchman, who had also ardently defended the Grand Prix de France, also at the end of his contract, found an ally in Sebastian Vettel. “You don’t want to lose places you’ve been going to for so long. »advances the German. “It would be horrible to lose Melbourne from the calendar, it would be horrible to lose some 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 to stick to. »continues the quadruple world champion.
If Monaco finds itself in the hot seat, it is also due to the fact that the Grand Prix lacks spectacle since it saw the sad total of zero overruns last year. The current Formula 1 cars seem almost unsuited to the mythical circuit, and there is no doubt that the few centimeters and kilos gained this year will not favor the spectacle.
However, the Grand Prix continues to make the fans dream of the first hour who could see there the first success of Fangio in 1950 or the six victories of Ayrton Senna. But Formula 1 is taking a new direction under the impetus of Stefano Domenicali who wants to conquer new markets, helped by the worldwide success of Drive To Survive.
The economic aspect works against Monaco against the rich organizers of the Middle East or the United States. For Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, organizers must adapt or die.
“I think Monaco has to align itself on the same commercial terms as the other Grand Prix and also think about how to adapt the layout since our single-seaters have become bigger, and that makes the race more difficult.explains the Briton. “I’d rather have Monaco on the calendar than not have it… but as the sport is bigger than any driver or team, I think it’s also bigger than any Grand Prix. »
Zak Brown will not be among those who will defend Monaco at all costs, and Grand Prix organizers may be well advised to take the advice of the McLaren boss to hope to keep the world’s most prestigious street circuit on the 2023 calendar.