In a dramatic turn just days before the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has made headlines by threatening to “sit out the race” following a controversial new regulation announced by the FIA — a rule change that applies exclusively to the historic street circuit.

The FIA confirmed earlier this week that for the first time in Formula 1 history, teams will be required to make at least two pit stops during the Monaco Grand Prix, using a minimum of three different sets of tyres, and at least two different dry tyre compounds if conditions stay dry.

The aim, according to the FIA, is to “improve the sporting spectacle” at a venue where overtaking has become virtually impossible. However, the move has divided opinion in the paddock — and Hamilton’s response was among the most explosive.

“If we need gimmicks like this to make Monaco entertaining, then maybe we shouldn’t be racing here at all,” Hamilton told reporters in Monte Carlo. “I’ve spent my entire career pushing for fairness and integrity in this sport. Forcing pit stops isn’t strategy — it’s theater. If they keep changing the rules just for show, I might as well not race.”

The FIA’s official stance was made clear in a previous statement, citing the unique challenges of Monaco:

“The FIA World Motor Sport Council has approved a specific requirement for the Monaco GP mandating the use of at least three sets of tyres in the race, with a minimum of two different compounds used if it is dry,” the governing body said. “The intent is to enhance the sporting spectacle given the notable difficulty in overtaking at this circuit.”

Hamilton, currently trailing in the championship and hoping for a resurgence with Ferrari in 2026, sees the rule as a distraction from the real issues.

“Why not focus on car size, on making the track more suitable for modern F1?” he continued. “Mandating stops is just papering over the cracks. And if this becomes the future of Formula 1, I’ll have to seriously rethink what I’m racing for.”

While Hamilton stopped short of confirming he would actually withdraw from Sunday’s race, his words have added further tension to a Monaco weekend already buzzing with uncertainty.

As fans await action on the streets of Monte Carlo, all eyes will be on Hamilton — not just for his performance on track, but to see whether he follows through on a threat that could shake the sport to its core.