Schumacher claims Monaco Grand Prix at risk of falling out of F1 calendar

16:32, 26 May

Updated: 16:33, 26 May

byNorberto Mujica

The crown jewel of the F1 calendar, despite its heritage and sporting relevance, could face extrication from the world championship, according to Ralf Schumacher.

With the impossibility to overtake at the Monte-Carlo street circuit, the Monaco Grand Prix has recently been criticised due to the dull races it produces.

Despite the FIA's intentions to overturn the negative trend with a two mandatory pitstops rule, the race was once again esteril in terms of overtake and overall emotion.

"If it continues like this, it will eventually mean the end for the Grand Prix because the spectators won't accept it," Schumacher said to Sky Sports Germany. "The atmosphere is great, the qualifying is top, but such a race should not happen again".

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher works as an analyst at Sky.

Is there anyway to salvage the Monaco Grand Prix?

Monaco has extended its agreement with F1 to hold a Grand Prix until 2031. However, drastic changes are required to the track layout in order to create overtaking possibilities, something Schumacher sees will be a costly alternative.

"Of course, the best solution would be to create an overtaking opportunity, but that would probably require a lot of money."

These statement from the former F1 driver echo Red Bull Racing's CEO and team principal Christian Horner's who believes creating a larger braking zone into Turn 1 or into the Nouvelle chicane, could work towards creating action during the Monaco Grand Prix.