
Monaco is preparing for the 2027 Formula 1 Grand Prix with a new infrastructure project at Port Hercule. The Principality’s Government has launched work to expand the South Basin, located opposite the famous Rascasse corner, to create a platform covering approximately 2,500 square metres. The new space will accommodate facilities required for the Grand Prix and other events held in the port area.
The project addresses the growing need for logistical space at one of Monaco’s most important sporting events. The platform will complement the additional areas made available on Quai Antoine Ier in spring 2026, following the demolition of the former International School of Monaco building. Those areas have been allocated to additional paddock facilities.
The expansion of the South Basin is another step in adapting Monaco’s infrastructure to the requirements of the Grand Prix. The additional surface area will help organisers accommodate temporary facilities needed during motor racing competitions and other major events held in the port district.
Located opposite the Rascasse corner, the project is set within one of the most distinctive areas of Monaco’s street circuit. Space must be managed efficiently to balance port operations with the logistical demands of major events.
Reducing the environmental impact of motor racing events is another key objective of the project. The new platform will include an electrical transformer substation and the equipment needed to supply power to temporary facilities.
This infrastructure will make it possible to eliminate 15 generator sets that are installed each year during motor racing events. Reducing reliance on these generators is a central part of the project, which aims to improve the efficiency of the power supply in areas used for the Grand Prix.
The construction schedule covers six months, from November 2026 to April 2027, with the aim of completing the platform ahead of the 2027 Formula 1 Grand Prix.
The structure will consist of a reinforced-concrete slab supported by piles. To minimise disruption to port operations and events in the surrounding area, construction work will be carried out mainly from the sea.
Land deliveries and transport operations will be concentrated in a restricted logistics area along the quay. The construction plan is designed to limit disruption, as far as possible, for residents, boat owners and businesses operating at Port Hercule.
The project will also affect port users. During construction, approximately 100 boats belonging to holders of annual berthing contracts will have to be temporarily relocated to allow the work to proceed.
The Société d’Exploitation des Ports de Monaco (SEPM), which manages the Principality’s ports, has already begun contacting the affected boat owners to coordinate the relocations.
Once construction is complete, approximately 30 boat owners will be offered a new berth within Monaco’s ports. Managing these relocations will therefore be one of the main operational challenges during the six-month construction period.
With the new 2,500-square-metre platform, Monaco aims to strengthen Port Hercule’s infrastructure and meet the logistical requirements of the Formula 1 Grand Prix. The project combines additional event space with a measure designed to reduce dependence on electric generators.
Completing the construction work on schedule will be essential to ensure that the new area is ready for the 2027 Grand Prix, while maintaining port operations and limiting disruption to the surrounding neighbourhood.