Overview

• Article 6.3.6 of the 2026 F1 sporting regulations now obliges each driver at Monaco to use three tyre sets, effectively mandating two pit stops.
• Teams including Racing Bulls and Williams exploited the rule by deploying one car to slow the field and secure ‘free’ pit stops for teammates.
• Carlos Sainz described the tactics as race manipulation and George Russell questioned the format’s fairness after being disadvantaged.
• Williams team principal James Vowles said the rule was reinstated without team consultation and plans to seek answers from FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis.
• The FIA’s Sporting Advisory Committee will review the regulation before the next Monaco Grand Prix and explore alternative solutions to improve overtaking.