As part of Formula E's season five calendar, the all-electric single seater series will make use of the full Monaco Grand Prix circuit in 2019.
The biennial Monaco ePrix made its debut on the Formula E calendar as part of the series' opening season of competition, returning last season while it will once again return next year, alternating with the Historic Grand Prix in agreement with local laws that allow two motorsport events in the principality per year.
The short track, which is 1.097 miles long, bypasses the full circuit from the exit of Saint Devote to Monaco's iconic tunnel while next season's event will include the full circuit as power is set to increase along with battery life.
“Monaco is back and we will use the full track,” Formula E boss Alejandro Agag told e-racing 365.
“The short track was too small; it was ok, but it is much better for us to race on the big one."
This decision has been met with praise from a number of drivers on the grid including season two champion and Renault e.dams driver, Sebastien Buemi.
“I think first of all with the new cars, it’s going to be very difficult to continue on the small tracks,” he told e-racing 365.
“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.”
Dragon Racing's Jerome d'Ambrosio mirrored Buemi's opinion on the change:
“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,” he added.
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