The recent Qatar Grand Prix weekend in Formula 1 was marred by chaos surrounding track limits. Grid positions were constantly shuffled as penalties were handed out, disrupting the race order. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, has expressed his discontent with such situations, stressing that they are unacceptable. However, his approach to solving the issue differs from the common belief that the FIA should take charge and enforce stricter regulations. Ben Sulayem proposes that circuits with track limit problems, like Qatar and Austria, should take it upon themselves to make circuit modifications that discourage drivers from exceeding the limits. In an interview with Autosport, he stated that without these changes, the future of races like this may be at stake.
The Need for Circuit Modifications
Ben Sulayem firmly believes that improving the tracks themselves is the ultimate solution. He commended the stewards for their vigilance in identifying track limit infractions but pointed out that it doesn’t address the root cause of the problem. The excessive abuse of kerbs in Qatar, for example, played a role in the tire issues encountered during the race. Pirelli tires experienced sidewall separation, leading to an 18-lap limit on tire life and turning the race into a three-stop event. To address the track limit problem, Ben Sulayem emphasizes the importance of better kerb designs at venues where this is a recurring issue. He suggests considering the slipperiness of off-road surfaces to deter drivers from going wide and damaging their cars.
Finding solutions to track limits is crucial for the future of Formula 1. Ben Sulayem emphasizes the need to listen to drivers’ feedback and take their opinions into account when designing the tracks. He acknowledges that implementing circuit modifications, such as altering kerb heights or introducing gravel traps, requires careful consideration. The depth and size of the gravel traps must strike a balance between preventing drivers from getting stuck and avoiding excessive damage to their vehicles. Ben Sulayem believes that time is of the essence and that these changes must be urgently implemented for the upcoming season to avoid further disruptions.
Enhancing Control with Technology
While progress has been made to control track limit breaches, Ben Sulayem argues that further improvements can be achieved through technology. He highlights the importance of investing in additional resources for the FIA to effectively address these issues. Technology could play a significant role in providing more accurate real-time monitoring of track limits. However, this requires financial backing and a strengthened partnership with Formula 1. Ben Sulayem insists that the FIA should receive better funding and resources to operate successfully, given their crucial role in overseeing the championship.
According to Ben Sulayem, the FIA and Formula 1 need to have a more constructive arrangement to ensure the necessary investment in track limit control. He emphasizes that the FIA owns the championship and represents the landlord, while Formula 1 operates as a lessee. Both parties have their respective missions, but they share the responsibility of maintaining the integrity of the sport. Transparent communication about the actual costs involved is vital, as it is essential for all stakeholders to understand the financial requirements to operate at the highest level.
The track limits chaos witnessed in several Formula 1 races, including the Qatar Grand Prix and the Austrian Grand Prix, is unacceptable. To address this issue, Ben Sulayem advocates for circuit modifications that discourage drivers from exceeding track limits. These modifications involve better kerb designs and potentially the use of gravel traps or slippery surfaces. Additionally, the FIA requires greater resources, including technology, to effectively monitor and control track limits. A collaborative effort between the FIA and Formula 1 is crucial to ensure adequate funding to support these improvements. By implementing these changes, Formula 1 can create a fairer and more competitive racing environment for all drivers while maintaining the integrity of the sport.
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