Bernie Ecclestone believes Monaco's place as an annual Formula 1 event is secure as "no-one has got the balls" to axe it.
For decades, the principality has been the jewel in the sport's crown. The race in Monte Carlo each year attracts the rich and famous from sports stars to royalty, and has long been regarded as one of the most prestigious and glamorous events in the entire sporting world.
But in recent years the shine has worn off somewhat. While Monaco itself remains an attractive destination, the street circuit is too tight for modern F1 cars – races in recent years have largely been dull affairs with overtaking extremely difficult, leaving fans to watch a procession rather than a competitive battle.
The often less-than-exciting racing action and declining reputation of the Monaco Grand Prix among some fans has led to speculation that its place on the annual F1 calendar, which has for so long been a formality, may now be under threat.
Last weekend's race was the final one that F1 bosses are contractually obliged to run, with the contract between the two parties expiring this year. There may be 24 races next season, but with the introduction of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, the possible return to China and a mooted plan to take the sport back to South Africa's Kyalami circuit, Monaco might be the current venue which is sacrificed.
Outspoken former F1 chief Ecclestone is not worried about that happening, though, as he believes it would be too bold of a move for the sport's current leaders to make. "I don't think anyone's got the balls to take that race away from Monaco," he told Reuters . "Whether it's the worst race or the best race or whatever, it's the crown jewels."
The 91-year-old went on to say that he had spoken to Michel Boeri, president of the Automobile Club de Monaco, last week. "They are still super, super happy and confident with everything without any drama. So I don't see any problems there at all," Ecclestone added.
Despite the former F1 supremo's assertions that Monaco is worth keeping, there are a lot of reasons why the sport's current leaders might want to make changes. The track's unsuitability for modern cars is just the tip of the iceberg, as TV direction, sponsorship and a significantly lower in-person attendance on race weekends are all issues for F1's top brass.
While it seems unlikely that the Monaco Grand Prix would disappear altogether, the chances of it becoming a biennial event are currently higher than at any point in decades. Fans are likely to find out more about the future of the event later this year, either before or when F1 announces its 2023 calendar plans.
