F1 announces major extension with iconic grand prix

Formula 1 has announced a new long-term extension to keep the Monaco Grand Prix on the calendar until at least 2035.

Monaco's place on the calendar has been called into question in recent years owing to a lack of overtaking action in races, with particular criticism placed on the 2024 race after a first-lap red flag meant drivers completed the entire race without a green-flag pit stop.

However, in November 2024, a new six-year contract between F1 and the Automobile Club of Monaco (ACM) was agreed, securing the race on the calendar until at least 2031.

As part of this deal, from 2026, the race will move to the first weekend of June annually, in a push-back from its usual end of May date, effectively swapping places in the schedule with the Canadian GP. 

The Monaco GP is the third-oldest world championship grand prix, having been part of the world championship since 1950, except between 1951-1955 and in 2020, with this race being cancelled due to the then-ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

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Domenicali reaction

"The streets of Monaco have been echoing with the sound of Formula 1 since the earliest days of the sport, so I’m delighted to announce the extension of this fantastic event to 2035," explained F1 boss Stefano Domenicali. 

"It is an iconic race that is loved by all drivers and fans, with a unique vibe thanks to its location on the world’s most glamorous Principality. 

"I would like to say a special thank you to His Serene Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco, Michel Boeri, President of the Automobile Club of Monaco and everyone involved in securing the long-term future of this historic partnership."

Prince Albert himself also added the race's extension was a "testament to our collective success."

"The renewal of the Monaco Grand Prix until 2035 is in keeping with a sporting and historical tradition to which the Principality remains deeply attached," he said.

"I can only welcome this renewed commitment, which is a testament to our collective success, the excellence of our collaboration with Formula 1, and the unique place that Monaco occupies in the international motorsport landscape."

The president of the ACM, Michel Boeri thanked Domenicali for his "continued trust" whilst saying the agreement "reaffirms our commitment" to the race.

"I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco for his unwavering support, as well as to Stefano Domenicali for his continued trust," he said.

"The Automobile Club de Monaco is delighted with this four-year extension, which reflects the strong and enduring relationship between Formula 1 and the Principality of Monaco. 

"This agreement reaffirms, more than ever, our commitment to delivering an exceptional, unmatched, and world-renowned race weekend to the passionate fans who travel from all over the globe to attend the Monaco Grand Prix, first held in 1929.

"I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding work of the F1 community and all the volunteers, as well as that of the Monegasque institutions, whose involvement is essential to the success of this extraordinary event."