Brawn: Naive to expect action-packed Monaco Grand Prix 

Formula 1 sporting chief Ross Brawn believes the Monaco Grand Prix should not be compared to other races on the calendar due to the unique nature of the circuit layout. 

The prestigious race around the tight and twisty streets of Monte Carlo has been ever-present on the F1 calendar since the championship’s inception in 1950. This year’s race came under criticism, with world champions Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen stating it was one of the most boring races in F1’s recent history. 

Some drivers have even gone as far as suggesting making changes to the track layout, though Brawn feels it is naive to expect an action-packed race and argued that the spectacle and experience of the weekend as a whole is what makes Monaco special. 

“I’ve heard and read a number of comments from drivers and F1 people saying the race was boring and it’s true that it wasn’t action-packed, all the more so as the tyres were the key factor,” Brawn wrote in his usually post-race press release. “However, it’s a bit naïve to expect lots of duels and passing moves in Monaco! 

“That’s in contrast to the unique spectacle of Saturday’s qualifying, as this is the only place one can get so close to the action as the 20 drivers brush the barriers (sometimes clipping them) at speeds that are just unthinkable for mere mortals: maybe we don’t give enough credit to these guys who can lap the 3,337 metre track in around 71 seconds.”

As a result, Brawn feels Monaco cannot be judged on the same level as other circuits on the F1 calendar that naturally promote overtaking. While he believes a knee-jerk reaction is not required, Brawn said he will always welcome feedback from drivers on how to improve racing and circuits. 

“Monaco is such a special race that it should not be judged by the same criteria as the others,”  The atmosphere in the paddock and the town, the glamour that surrounds the event makes it unique. 

“Having said that, one of the aims we have set ourselves for the Formula 1 of the future is to work together with the promoters and all stakeholders to ensure the new circuits provide more overtaking opportunities and that current ones are improved. 

“Naturally, the opinion of the drivers is welcome and our door is always open. However, in Monaco you’d need to reclaim land from the sea to do something and that’s definitely not up to us!”