Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have voiced opposite opinions about the proposal to turn the Monaco Grand Prix into a Sprint-format weekend starting in 2027. The debate highlights the broader conversation within Formula 1 about how best to balance tradition, entertainment value, and the logistical demands of a modern racing calendar. **Background to the change** In early September, Formula 1 unveiled its 2027 schedule, confirming that the total number of Sprint events will rise from six to ten.
Among the newly designated Sprint weekends is the iconic Circuit de Monaco, a venue famed for its narrow, winding streets, historic aura, and the fact that overtaking there is notoriously difficult. The Sprint format adds a 100‑kilometre dash on Saturday, preceded by an extra qualifying session on Friday. The governing body argued that the additional qualifying session would give drivers "another chance to display their world‑class skill and precision on the tight Monte Carlo streets," thereby enriching the spectacle for fans.
**Hamilton’s reservations** Hamilton, a seven‑time world champion who is currently targeting a win in Azerbaijan, was blunt in his assessment. "It makes no sense to me, but I'm not the one making the decisions," he said, emphasizing that while an extra qualifying session might be appealing, the core issue lies with the race format itself.
"Monaco needs something different. It shouldn't be the same race formula that's used everywhere else. The circuit is beautiful, the country is stunning, and the track is incredible to drive, yet the race can be as dull as it gets.
We've already introduced Sprints, which have added a fresh dimension to the sport, but a Sprint race in Monaco is not the answer," Hamilton explained. Hamilton’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among some drivers and fans that Monaco’s unique character calls for a bespoke solution—perhaps a longer qualifying shootout, a reverse‑grid race, or a night‑time event—rather than simply grafting the standard Sprint model onto a venue that already struggles with on‑track action. **Russell’s counterpoint** George Russell, the Mercedes driver who recently secured a dramatic victory in Baku, offered a contrasting view during the FIA press conference. "I personally think it’s good because we’ve had Sprints for quite a while, and normal race weekends feel quite long‑winded.
We all want to fight," he said. Russell highlighted the excitement that a Sprint‑qualifying session can bring, noting that the adrenaline rush of a short, high‑stakes qualifying session often outweighs the more procedural nature of traditional free‑practice runs. "Sprint Qualifying is way more exciting than FP2, so overall it makes sense," he added. Russell’s perspective underscores the argument that the Sprint format injects variety into a calendar that can feel monotonous, especially for drivers who thrive on competition throughout the weekend.
By turning Friday into a genuine showdown rather than a series of practice runs, the Sprint weekend could keep both participants and spectators more engaged. **Other drivers weigh in** Max Verstappen, who has previously criticised the proliferation of Sprint weekends, has softened his tone in recent years.
While he once warned that adding too many Sprints could shorten his own career, he now says his stance is more pragmatic: "Maybe Monaco wanted it, I don’t know. For me, I honestly don’t care where the Sprints are. I participate, and of course you try to do the best you can. I have no emotion attached to winning a Sprint race or not.
My focus is always on the Grand Prix itself." Sergio Pérez, speaking after learning about the Monaco decision via the drivers’ WhatsApp group, described the news as "a bit busy" but expressed curiosity. "Monaco, I think you just make it a little bit more variable, to be honest. It’s been basically a Saturday event in recent years. Mixing things up could make it more interesting, and I’m definitely looking forward to it," he said.
Lando Norris, the reigning world champion, took a fan‑centric angle: "If the fans have a better time then I’m happy. I think they could have picked better races to do it.
Some races could have produced a more exciting Sprint, but it’s not our decision to make." **Why Monaco matters** Monaco is not just another stop on the calendar; it is a cultural touchstone for the sport. The race has been held since 1929 and is synonymous with glamour, high‑stakes precision driving, and a historic aura that few other events can match.
However, its layout—tight hairpins, a tunnel, and a lack of overtaking opportunities—means that the race often turns into a procession, with the winner decided early and the remainder of the laps spent defending positions. Supporters of the Sprint argue that adding a shorter, high‑intensity race on Saturday could give drivers a second chance to fight for points, potentially shaking up the usual order. Critics, like Hamilton, contend that simply tacking on a Sprint does not address the fundamental challenge of creating on‑track action on a street circuit that inherently limits passing. **Potential alternatives** If the Sprint format proves unsuitable, the sport could explore alternatives: 1.
**Extended Qualifying** – A longer, multi‑segment qualifying session that determines both the grid for the Sprint and the main race, adding strategic depth. 2.
**Reverse‑Grid Sprint** – A Sprint race where the starting order is reversed based on the previous race’s results, encouraging overtaking. 3.
**Night Race** – Shifting the main event to a twilight or night setting, which could enhance visual appeal and perhaps alter track conditions to promote more action. 4. **Hybrid Format** – Combining a short race with a points‑heavy qualifying session, where drivers earn points for fastest laps as well as race positions. **Conclusion** The split between Hamilton and Russell exemplifies the broader tension within Formula 1: preserving the heritage and unique character of iconic venues while evolving the sport to keep audiences engaged.
Whether Monaco will ultimately adopt the Sprint format or pursue a different innovation remains to be seen, but the discussion itself highlights the sport’s willingness to experiment and adapt. Fans, drivers, and officials will be watching closely as the 2027 calendar unfolds, eager to see how the legendary Monte Carlo streets will be reshaped for the next generation of racing.