Surprise Monaco GP format change confirmed in new F1 announcement

Formula 1 has announced that the Monaco Grand Prix will feature a Sprint race for the first time in 2027, as part of an expanded calendar that includes ten Sprints. This change aims to enhance the excitement of the event, which has faced criticism for being processional in nature. Alongside Monaco, other new hosts for Sprint races will include Bahrain, Australia, Japan, and Abu Dhabi, contributing to a total of ten Sprints next season.

The FIA president highlighted the global appeal of the 2027 calendar, which will consist of 24 Grands Prix across five continents, including the return of Portugal and Türkiye. The inclusion of the Sprint races is intended to provide fans with more intense and engaging racing experiences. However, drivers may face challenges in balancing the risks of the Sprint with their qualifying positions for the main race.