In response to the disruptions encountered during FP1 on Friday, Formula 1 (F1) is taking steps to ensure a smooth continuation of the Canadian Grand Prix. The governing body has announced adjustments to the schedule, with FP2 now set to commence 30 minutes earlier than originally planned and lasting 90 minutes, a 50% increase in duration.
The trouble began during FP1 when Pierre Gasly, driving for Alpine, experienced a suspected driveshaft failure between Turns 7 and 8, forcing a red flag. Mercedes, anticipating a restart, positioned Lewis Hamilton and George Russell at the pitlane’s end. However, they were soon called back to the garage.
Subsequently, it was revealed that race control faced synchronization issues with the local CCTV infrastructure, rendering accurate track monitoring impossible. This problem persisted throughout the session, which was ultimately prematurely abandoned before its scheduled one-hour completion.
The FIA has provided an update indicating that local organizers are actively addressing the delay between the camera feeds and the images available to race control. In the interim, they are collaborating with Formula One Management to establish a backup solution by utilizing the world feed images typically reserved for broadcasting. This plan entails linking the trackside TV cameras to race control to meet safety requirements.
In light of these developments, the stewards have issued a statement amending the Official Programme of the 2023 Canadian Grand Prix. FP2’s duration has been extended by 30 minutes, and it will now commence at 1630hrs. Additionally, the return of tires, as per Article 30.5 of the Formula One Sporting Regulations, is to be completed no later than two hours after the conclusion of FP2.
FP1 was officially abandoned with ten minutes remaining on the clock, with Valtteri Bottas leading the session after completing only three laps in his Alfa Romeo.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about backup solution
What was the reason for the disruptions during FP1 of the Canadian Grand Prix?
The disruptions during FP1 of the Canadian Grand Prix were caused by a suspected driveshaft failure experienced by Pierre Gasly, driving for Alpine, between Turns 7 and 8.
How did race control attempt to handle the disruptions?
Race control initially anticipated a restart and positioned Lewis Hamilton and George Russell at the end of the pitlane. However, they were later called back to the garage.
What was the underlying issue that hindered race control’s monitoring of the track?
Race control faced synchronisation issues with the local CCTV infrastructure, which prevented them from accurately monitoring the track.
How is the FIA planning to address the monitoring issue for future sessions?
While working to rectify the delay in camera feed availability, the FIA is collaborating with Formula One Management to create a backup solution using the world feed images typically reserved for broadcasting. This involves linking the trackside TV cameras to race control to meet safety requirements.
Has the schedule been adjusted due to the disruptions?
Yes, the schedule has been modified. FP2 will start 30 minutes earlier than originally planned and will now last 90 minutes, a 50% increase in duration.
What are the implications for the return of tires after FP1?
According to the stewards’ statement, the tires required to be returned after FP1 should now be returned no later than two hours after the conclusion of FP2, as per Article 30.5 of the Formula One Sporting Regulations.
More about backup solution
- F1 Canadian GP: Bottas tops shortened first practice
- F1 Canadian GP FP2 extended in wake of CCTV issue
