Formula 1’s new tyre rules for the Monaco Grand Prix could lead to drivers gambling on when to make pit stops, says Max Verstappen.

The series has introduced a special rule for Monaco only requiring drivers to use at least three different sets of tyres during the race instead of the usual two. They will therefore likely have to make an extra pit stop which, at a track where overtaking is virtually impossible, will create significant strategic headaches for the teams.

Verstappen said the rule change could have a drastic effect on the race or none at all depending on the circumstances. “I guess it can go both ways, where it could be quite straightforward or it could go completely crazy because of Safety Cars coming into play or not, making the right calls,” he said.

The two-times Monaco Grand Prix winner expects the rule change will create more drama, particularly as teams try to second-guess what their rivals will do.

Analysis: How will F1’s new Monaco tyre rule work – and how might teams try to exploit it?

“Normally when you have that one stop, once you have a good pit stop and everything is fine, then you drive to the end,” he said. “You just have to stay focused and not hit the barrier.

“But maybe with a two-stop it can create something different, people gambling, guessing when the right time is to box.”

Pierre Gasly is hoping the rule will create an opportunity to reach the points in a grand prix for the second time this year.

“I always see things from the bright angle, so I see opportunities,” he said. “I see some unknown which we should embrace rather than being afraid of.

Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and

“At the end of the day, I’m not too sure everybody knows what this is going to do. It might actually not change much.

“I think what remains extremely important is the qualifying so we know if you know you get it right in quali at least you do a big part of the of the job. But I’m sure it’s going to open up some potential strategy which will have to be on top of it.”

Miss nothing from RaceFans

Get a daily email with all our latest stories – and nothing else. No marketing, no ads. Sign up here:

2025 Monaco Grand Prix

Browse all 2025 Monaco Grand Prix articles