After days of mounting backlash from Formula 1 stars Max Verstappen and George Russell, the FIA has finally broken its silence and responded with a firm move — introducing a new regulation aimed at addressing the growing dissatisfaction surrounding the Monaco Grand Prix.

This year’s race saw the implementation of a controversial mandatory two-stop rule, a bid by the FIA to inject excitement into what many consider F1’s most processional circuit. But the change was met with scathing criticism from both Verstappen and Russell after the 78-lap race featured zero on-track overtakes and left fans and drivers alike deeply underwhelmed.

Faced with such outspoken criticism from two of the grid’s top drivers, the FIA released an official statement on Tuesday confirming that a new framework will be implemented starting in 2026, while acknowledging the limitations of this year’s experiment:

“Following feedback from teams and drivers after the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, the FIA acknowledges that the mandatory two-stop strategy did not produce the intended effect,” the statement read. “We have approved a regulatory change for 2026 that will explore new qualifying formats and potential alterations to car dimensions specifically for Monaco and other street circuits.”

“We remain committed to improving the sporting spectacle while maintaining fairness and safety. The feedback from key stakeholders has been invaluable, and we are evaluating additional changes, including alternative race formats and technical adjustments tailored for narrow circuits like Monte Carlo.”