Following the 2022 Austrian Grand Prix, the FIA proposed the installment of gravel traps at the Red Bull Ring as a potential solution to ongoing track limit issues. This advice, however, was dismissed by circuit executives who decided to maintain the existing kerb and run-off configuration.
In the wake of the Austrian GP, where a staggering 1200 track limit violations threw the final race results into question, Formula 1 authorities have initiated an investigation. This probing seeks to understand whether this chaotic situation could have been preempted, and to devise potential solutions moving forward.
Though the FIA faced what they described as an ‘unprecedented’ situation, it seems that the situation could have been averted if Red Bull Ring officials had adhered to the initial advice from the FIA.
Track limit enforcement has been a perennial challenge at the Red Bull Ring due to its unique design. Earlier attempts to use sausage kerbs were discontinued due to safety issues, following a series of accidents.
As Formula 1 increasingly adheres to the strict rule of defining track limits by white lines, this problem has become increasingly pressing in Austria, particularly due to the layout of the final two right-hand turns that lure cars off course.
According to post-race information from the 2022 Austrian GP, a formal report from the FIA included a suggestion by Wittich to the Red Bull Ring management to consider modifying Turns 9 and 10. He specifically proposed the addition of small gravel traps at these corners as a natural means to circumvent significant track limit issues.
This suggestion, however, was not acted upon due to the difficulties that such a design alteration would pose for MotoGP, which traditionally favors pure asphalt run-off areas.
In light of the recent issues, the FIA is expected to heighten pressure on the Red Bull Ring to implement these changes in 2024, ensuring that a solution is found that accommodates both F1 and motorcycle racing.
Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, agrees that gravel traps might be the best solution, stating, “I think a strip of gravel or something as a deterrent to run out there [is needed].” He explained that drivers find it challenging to see the white lines from their cars and thus rely heavily on their instinct and feel.
Acknowledging the need to strike a balance between the requirements of MotoGP and F1, Horner insisted on the importance of finding a solution that better accommodates Formula 1.
Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff also highlighted the urgent need to find a solution that satisfies all stakeholders. Wolff suggested two potential solutions: returning to sausage kerbs or eliminating them entirely to allow drivers to race the fastest line. However, he emphasized the importance of finding a solution that benefits all parties, as the aim is to deliver a thrilling race not hindered by penalties for track limit offences.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Red Bull Ring track limit issues
What suggestion did the FIA make following the 2022 Austrian Grand Prix?
The FIA suggested the installment of gravel traps at the Red Bull Ring as a potential solution to ongoing track limit issues.
Why was the FIA’s suggestion to install gravel traps rejected by circuit executives?
The suggestion was rejected due to the complications that such a design change would have made for MotoGP, which traditionally favors pure asphalt run-off areas.
What has been a recurring challenge at the Red Bull Ring?
Enforcing track limits has been a recurring challenge at the Red Bull Ring due to its unique design.
How has F1’s stance on track limits affected the situation at the Red Bull Ring?
F1’s stricter adherence to the rule of defining track limits by white lines has made the problem more critical in Austria, particularly due to the layout of the final two right-hand turns that lure cars off course.
What is the expected response of the FIA to the recent track limit issues at the Red Bull Ring?
The FIA is expected to heighten pressure on the Red Bull Ring to implement changes in 2024, ensuring that a solution is found that accommodates both F1 and motorcycle racing.
What is Christian Horner’s perspective on resolving the track limit issues at the Red Bull Ring?
Christian Horner, the Red Bull team principal, agrees that gravel traps might be the best solution to deter drivers from running out of track limits.
5 comments
I mean Christian Horner’s got a point… if the drivers cant see the white lines, we need a better deterrent.
hey F1 fans, remember MotoGP uses these tracks too! We need a solution that works for everyone.
wow, I can’t belive they didnt listen to the FIA. Gravel traps would def solve the prob!
As a RB fan, It’s about time they get this sorted. these penalties are ruinin the races.
how hard is it to get track limits right? smh…