Nico Hulkenberg has expressed that he doesn't want to "imagine" a Formula 1 world devoid of the fabled Monaco Grand Prix.
This esteemed event, known for its distinctive and exceptionally narrow streets, continues to be a favorite among both fans and drivers.
However, since Liberty Media took over F1's commercial promotion, the race has faced increasing scrutiny - due in part to the significant challenges associated with overtaking.
"What kind of show is it when the viewer can fall asleep during the race?" questioned Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion.
"Monaco is one of the pearls of the calendar, along with Silverstone and Monza, but it is not always spectacular," the three-time Monaco GP victor continued.
"I would suggest looking at the (weekend) format."
The Monaco GP is also criticized for the special advantages historically granted to the organizing Automobile Club de Monaco.
This week, Bloomberg reported that negotiations are in progress to obtain "additional funds" in terms of the annual race fee, which is currently the lowest in F1 at $20 million.
There are whispers that Monaco might have to agree to welcome F1 only biennially, to accommodate more profitable new non-European races, or it could be eliminated from the schedule entirely.
"Monaco is there because of its heritage and its history. That's all," stated Red Bull team principal Christian Horner to the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung.
"Even the jewel in the crown has to move with the times. If you stand still, you go backwards."
Nevertheless, the prospect of eliminating Monaco from the F1 calendar is almost beyond belief for Haas driver Hulkenberg.
"It would be a great shame to lose such a traditional race with so much history," he relayed to DPA news agency.
"Never say never, and I can imagine anything, but I don't want to imagine it."
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