Nico Hulkenberg, the Sauber Formula 1 driver, addressed ongoing criticisms about the Monaco Grand Prix track recently, urging detractors to cease their complaints. Speaking in Barcelona, Hulkenberg insisted that the conventional challenges of overtaking at Monaco are well-known and that frustration over the race’s predictability is misplaced.
He remarked,
“I don’t always understand that drama around it,”
when questioned about proposed track modifications.
“People know it’s going to happen, and then they complain anyway. So, it’s something I don’t really spend too much time and energy [thinking] about.”
Hulkenberg bluntly added,
“If you want to do better, you just have to qualify better. Stop crying.”
Context of ongoing discussion on Monaco GP improvements
This statement comes as Alex Wurz, president of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), has suggested various changes to enhance excitement at Monaco, following a mandatory two-pitstop rule introduced last weekend. Despite these efforts, the race remains difficult for drivers to pass one another, often leading to criticism of its lack of on-track action.
Hulkenberg acknowledged the consistent concerns surrounding the event, saying,
“Every year we have this, and while my grand prix wasn’t very exciting … I feel Monaco has always been a bit like that to some extent.”
Yet, he also highlighted the continued strong attendance, noting that the grandstands were among the fullest he has seen, with a substantial number of guests and celebrities in attendance.
He questioned the expectations for spectacle, asking,
“But when was the spectacular Monaco Grand Prix? Tell me when.”
Fernando Alonso questions drivers’ responses on Monaco track debate
Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso weighed in on the track criticism issue, suggesting that many drivers might be too polite when discussing Monaco’s characteristics. He argued that the focus often leans excessively toward what is lacking rather than what makes the race unique.
Alonso said,
“There is this constant talk of how bad is something, instead of how good is something.”
He suggested that although there could be room for ideas to improve the Monaco event, he does not believe major changes are necessary.
He further commented on driver candor, noting,
“It is only because there is a lot of content now to be created and drivers we are too nice so we answer every question. If 40 years ago you ask [Ayrton] Senna and [Alain] Prost about Monaco after one week and they are fighting for the championship, they will be less polite than we are.”
Significance of the ongoing Monaco GP discussion
The debate over the Monaco GP’s track design and race spectacle remains contentious, with prominent figures like Hulkenberg and Alonso defending the event’s traditional format despite repeated calls for reform. Their remarks highlight a tension between preserving the heritage of one of Formula 1’s most iconic circuits and meeting modern expectations for overtaking and excitement.
As the sport continues to evolve, further ideas and proposals may emerge, but for now, drivers such as Hulkenberg emphasize the importance of embracing the challenges that Monaco uniquely presents rather than demanding change based on dissatisfaction.