SPIELBERG, AUSTRIA – JUNE 30: Max Verstappen, from the Netherlands, driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB19 on the track during qualifying before the Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix at Red Bull Ring on June 30, 2023 in Spielberg, Austria. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
In a departure from the current trend of having tracks surrounded by vast expanses of asphalt, the sand and gravel on the edge of the circuit will penalize those who go off track or reward those who take risks.
The track changes were discussed by Formula 1 drivers during the press conference held by the FIA before the Austrian Grand Prix at Red Bull Ring on Thursday, just before the start of the first practice session of the weekend in Spielberg.
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari driver, commented on the modifications: “It’s intriguing. I’ve seen photos. These two corners were already quite challenging before the introduction of the gravel traps at turns 9 and 10. However, now it’s clear where the track limits are. We won’t have that problem anymore, which is a positive development. But of course, I still need to drive on the track to give you my exact thoughts. On paper, though, it looks promising,” concluded Leclerc.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull driver and three-time Formula 1 world champion, arrived late to the press conference and also shared his perspective on the track modifications in his second home race. Expect to see large sections of the Spielberg hills adorned in orange over the next three days.
About the modifications on the track, Verstappen stated: “It’s a fantastic track to drive on. I always enjoy it, especially the high-speed corners. However, due to the layout and the run-off areas behind them, we are constantly discussing the track limits. This is a bit problematic because throughout the lap, the tires overheat and the front tires become extremely hot. This naturally causes the car to understeer, and sometimes this happens even before entering the corner, resulting in a few millimeters off the track, which leads to a penalty. I hope the introduction of gravel will alleviate this issue a bit. It will require the drivers to be more cautious and precise. We’ll see if it’s the right approach. Currently, nobody has a definitive solution for what is best. Additionally, we have to share the track with other categories, like MotoGP, which makes it challenging to find the ideal solution,” reflected Verstappen. It’s worth noting that Verstappen has won the Austrian Grand Prix five times at his team’s circuit.
Furthermore, contributing to the discussion, the driver who will likely test the effectiveness of track limits with gravel, Williams driver Logan Sargeant, expressed his opinion: “It’s always challenging here. I don’t believe this will completely solve the problem, to be honest. I was able to exceed the track limits at Imola in turn 9, which is almost impossible. So, if they can do it there, I believe it’s still possible to do it here.
“And in the future, I would like to see a way for this to be completely eliminated through track design. I believe there is always an opportunity for that, and there is no reason for it,” added the American.
The Sauber driver, Zhou Guanyu, from the Stake F1 Team, also agreed: “I believe there will still be track limit violations, for sure, but it’s a more pleasant way to understand that you’re out if you touch the gravel. There are certain tracks where all the drivers are quite satisfied. But let’s see, I believe it will still be a challenge to assess this.”
“It’s a positive modification,” said Yuki Tsunoda from VCARB. “But I hope it’s not like Monza, the second chicane, where all the gravel ends up on the track and increases the chance of a puncture. That’s all. But I hope it’s beneficial.”
The first practice session (FP1) on Friday in Austria will provide the initial indication of the effectiveness of the reintroduced track limits. As a general rule, just like the walls, the gravel areas located on the edges of the tracks (for example, Melbourne is an example of both) keep the drivers under control. (Quotes obtained from Agnes Carlier at the Red Bull Ring)
© 2024
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton achieved another impressive victory at the Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday. With a dominant performance, Hamilton led the race from start to finish, leaving his competitors behind. This was Hamilton’s fifth consecutive win this season, solidifying his position as the championship leader.
The race in Monaco was full of excitement, with several overtakes and moments of tension. However, Hamilton showcased his exceptional skill by staying calm and controlling the race. His car was flawless, allowing him to reach incredible speeds on the narrow streets of the Monaco circuit.
Besides his impressive victory, Hamilton also set a new record in the Monaco Grand Prix. With his fifth consecutive win, he became the most successful driver in the history of this legendary race. His exceptional performance is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
With this victory, Hamilton solidifies his position as the leader of the Formula 1 championship. He now has a significant advantage over his closest competitors and is well on his way to securing his seventh world title. His consistency and skill are unmatched, and he continues to prove why he is considered one of the greatest drivers of all time.
The next race of the Formula 1 season will be held at the Canadian Grand Prix. Hamilton will certainly be eager to maintain his momentum and secure another victory. Fans from around the world are excited to see what he will do next and if he will be able to maintain his incredible winning streak.
This Formula 1 season has been exciting so far, with many twists and thrilling moments. Hamilton has been the undisputed highlight, showcasing his skill and dominance in every race. As the season continues, fans are eager to see if anyone will be able to challenge Hamilton’s reign and take the title from him.
With the Formula 1 season in full swing, fans are enjoying every thrilling race. Hamilton continues to be the driver to beat, but there are many other emerging talents ready to challenge him. As the season unfolds, the excitement only grows and fans are eager to see who will come out on top in the end.
*This text has been edited according to the given instructions.
