Gary Paffett predicts the 2026 Monaco E-Prix
Two-time DTM champion and CUPRA KIRO’s Racing Director, Gary Paffett, shares his expert insights to predict the 2026 Monaco E-Prix, in collaboration with Duelbits
The Circuit de Monaco needs no introduction, and since first appearing on the FIA Formula E World Championship calendar in 2015, the Monaco E-Prix has become the crown jewel event of each season.
Ruthlessly intense and unforgiving, the Monaco E-Prix has produced some of Formula E’s most exciting races to date and this weekend, the paddock will once again descend upon the Principality.
A two-time DTM champion and former Formula E driver, CUPRA KIRO’s Racing Director, Gary Paffett, is one of the most experienced figures in the series and shares his opinion on what might happen in Monaco, in collaboration with Duelbits…
Qualifying Will Define the Weekend
“Monaco is one of those circuits where Qualifying almost becomes half the job. Although we’ll still see a lot of overtaking, unlike Berlin, there isn’t the same opportunity to come through the field on raw pace alone. Track position will be critical, especially in Race 1, and even small mistakes in Qualifying have the potential to carry a much bigger impact than we’re used to seeing in Formula E.”
Two Days, Two Different Races
“In Monaco we’ll see two vastly different races from Saturday to Sunday. Race 1 will be more about reacting and timing Pit Boost and Attack Mode correctly whereas Race 2 will reward more long-term energy planning. Even though the circuit is the same, drivers will need two separate approaches over the weekend.”
Overtaking Will Still be Possible
“In Formula 1, Monaco has gained a reputation for it being difficult to overtake, but in Formula E, there are plenty of opportunities. The difference is that to move through the field, you need to be very committed, very efficient, and very precise.”
The Balancing Act of Energy Management
“Although Monaco is less energy sensitive than Berlin, management still plays a major role, especially in Race 2. The challenge will be in finding a balance between staying in the fight for the lead and building an energy offset. If you overcommit early, there’s a high risk of falling out of sequence later on.”
Safety Cars Galore
“Because of the proximity of the barriers, Monaco always has a high chance of multiple Safety Car and Full Course Yellow periods. In Formula E, such a period becomes even more influential because of Attack Mode and Pit Boost timing. There will almost certainly be moments in the weekend where strategy is completely rewritten by events outside of anyone’s control.”