Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has told Formula One bosses that the Monaco Grand Prix must stay on the calendar.
The prince of Monaco ???@Charles_Leclerc pic.twitter.com/TNWmDMomjW
— Ferrari News (@FanaticsFerrari) May 26, 2022
Organisers of the race are locked in discussions with F1’s American owners Liberty Media over a contract extension.
Despite being considered the most glamorous event in F1, the course is largely unchanged from its first grand prix staged in 1929 - with some claiming it is now unfit for purpose.
But Leclerc, 24, who is born and raised in Monaco, said: “Losing the race would be a bad move for both parties.
"I have never known Monaco without Formula One, apart from Covid reasons in 2020, and Formula One without Monaco is not Formula One.
"Formula One has historic tracks like Silverstone, Monza and Monaco, too, and Monaco should stay on the calendar.
"There is no track that comes close to the adrenalin we get here, and for me it is part of F1’s history"
"At home it's always extremely special" ?
Charles Leclerc says at win at his home grand prix in Monaco would be special but he's not putting extra pressure on himself ? pic.twitter.com/fS9iftHVG9
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) May 27, 2022
Despite the uncertainty, it is expected that Liberty, and the race organisers, are close to striking a new agreement with a formal announcement likely to follow in the coming months.
F1’s motorsport boss Ross Brawn has explored ways at adapting the tight and twisty track.
It is noted that alterations would require the full support of Automobile Club de Monaco.
