When the checkered flag lowered on the final Formula 1TM car and after the grandstands came down, Monaco’s biggest annual spectacle quietly entered its second life.
This time, the focus is not on lap times or podium celebrations. It is on spreadsheets, economic models and statistical evidence.
The Principality’s Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (IMSEE) is currently undertaking what could become one of Monaco’s most closely watched economic studies of the year: a comprehensive assessment of the real economic impact of the 2026 Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. The findings are expected before the end of 2026 and promise to answer a question that extends far beyond motorsport.
What is the true value of Formula 1TM to Monaco?
The announcement came during the 18th meeting of IMSEE’s Scientific Council, chaired by Professor Pierre Dubois and held at the Ministry of State. Bringing together specialists in economics, statistics and public policy, the council reviewed both completed projects and those now shaping Monaco’s future understanding of its economy.
A Statistical Institution Looking Beyond the Numbers
While Formula 1TM naturally attracts headlines, it is only one piece of an increasingly ambitious research programme.
IMSEE Director Alexandre Bubbio outlined a series of recent achievements, including Monaco’s new property price index based on price per square metre, publication of the 2025 tourism survey, analysis of gender pay differences, preparations for adopting the NAF 2025 business classification system, complementary population census work and ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with personal data protection rules.
Looking ahead, researchers will also examine the qualifications of private-sector employees and begin developing an entirely new long-term model to forecast State revenues, a project expected to evolve over several years. At the same time, residents will benefit from a practical innovation with the introduction of an online service allowing users to obtain NIS certificates electronically.
More Than a Race Weekend
The forthcoming Grand Prix study carries particular significance because Monaco already knows that Formula 1TM generates substantial economic activity.
The Institute’s previous landmark analysis of the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix estimated approximately €90 million in economic impact over just four days, driven largely by visitor spending on accommodation, restaurants and ticketing.
Nearly a decade later, the landscape has changed dramatically.
Visitor expectations have evolved. Luxury tourism has expanded. Formula 1 itself has become a global entertainment phenomenon under Liberty Media, attracting new audiences and new commercial opportunities. Measuring the 2026 edition will therefore provide valuable insight into how one of the world’s most famous sporting events continues to shape Monaco’s economy in an increasingly competitive international environment.
Evidence for Tomorrow’s Decisions
Economic statistics rarely command the attention of a Grand Prix winner, but they influence decisions that affect everyone, from government planning and infrastructure investment to tourism strategy and business confidence.
Welcoming the council, was Minister of State Christophe Mirmand.
After the formal session, the Minister hosted members for a working lunch at his official residence, an appropriate conclusion to a meeting dedicated to understanding how careful measurement can support better decisions.
Because in Monaco, the race may last only a weekend.
Understanding everything it leaves behind takes considerably longer.
