Monaco signs Formula 1 extension until at least 2031

Monaco will keep hosting Formula 1 races until at least 2031.

The Monaco Grand Prix has hosted races every year since 1955 - besides the 2020 season, which was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic - and a new six-year deal has been penned to continue its run as one of the most iconic races in the sport.

Started in 2026, the race will be shifted from its traditional date on the late weekend of May to the first full weekend in June.

In a statement, F1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali said: "I'm delighted that Formula 1 will continue to race in Monaco until 2031.

"The streets of Monte Carlo are unique and a famous part of Formula 1, and the Monaco Grand Prix remains a race that all drivers dream of winning."

And Michel Boeri, president of the Automobile Club of Monaco, promised an "unrivalled, first-class experience" for fans.

He added: "The signing of this new agreement with the Formula One Group until 2031 not only confirms the strength of our relationship but reaffirms our commitment to offering all visitors an unrivalled, first-class experience at race weekends.

"The Monaco Grand Prix is the most important sporting event here and continues to attract hundreds of thousands of spectators to the principality and millions of global television viewers worldwide."

There have been complaints about the location in recent years, due to narrow streets which makes overtaking a much tougher challenge, while Monaco's hosting fee is smaller than other races.