Monaco to utilise Grand Prix circuit from 2019

ABB Formula E will make use of the full Grand Prix layout in Monaco from 2019 onwards, when the all-electric series returns to the Principality.

The event is run every other year as part of a deal to alternate with the Historic Grand Prix, with local laws allowing only two motorsport events per year and one slot permanently taken by Formula 1.

When the series debuted in Monaco in 2015, a shortened 1.097km layout was devised to accommodate the concern for cars being unable to complete the climb from St. Devote to Casino Square. The top half of the track was unused as drivers plummeted downhill from St. Devote to the Nouvelle Chicane, where they hairpinned back around towards Tabac.

With the power output set to increase further in Season Five, Alejandro Agag confirmed the transition to the full 2.074km circuit.

“Monaco is back and we will use the full track,” Agag said to e-racing365.

“The short track was too small; it was ok, but it is much better for us to race on the big one.”

Season two champion Sebastien Buemi, who has won both editions of the Monaco E-Prix so far, added his thoughts to the news and believes it will be good for the series to look at using longer circuits.

“I think first of all with the new cars, it’s going to be very difficult to continue on the small tracks,” said the Swiss.

“Of course the [Monaco] small track is the smallest track of the whole season and it’s very difficult to overtake there. With more power and better cars, it’s going to be very important to go on the big one.

“When we have a possibility like in Monaco, I think we should jump on it.”

Jerome d’Ambrosio sees the decision as a logical step given the advancements of the technology in Formula E and awaits the sight of seeing the ultra-futuristic Season Five Gen2 machines blasting past the iconic landmarks of the Principality.

“Formula E has never been about what will happen if you go up or downhill, it’s a question of if you are going flat-out,” he said.

“I think doing the full circuit is a no-brainer as it will provide much more overtaking opportunity at places like Mirabeau and the chicane.

“There is no reason whatsoever why we can’t race there and the Season Five cars will be giving exactly the right message to everyone about EV technology.

“Imagine how cool the Season Five car is going to look heading in to Casino Square. It is going to be fantastic.”