The Real Issue with F1: Track Limits Controversy, Not Rules or Drivers

“Don’t we have the world’s top 20 drivers?”

Contrary to this belief, given the vast pool of talent in other motorsport categories, that isn’t necessarily true. If you found yourself shouting such sentiments after the 2023 Austrian Grand Prix Formula 1 qualifying, then the problem lies with you, not the rules or the drivers.

The FIA modified the track limits rules at the beginning of 2022, leading to significant controversies at the final two corners of the Red Bull Ring. Prior inconsistencies in rule enforcement concerning car placement on kerbs have now given way to definitive regulations.

During last year’s Austria qualifying, 16 drivers had times invalidated, a rise from eight in two qualifying sessions at the Red Bull Ring in 2021. In 2023, this number soared to 47, thanks to the upgraded ride platforms teams are working on to eradicate porpoising. This figure, however, was a decrease from the 165 laps erased during Friday’s practice. By Q3, only three times were disqualified.

After securing pole, Max Verstappen remarked that the multitude of invalidated laps made them look like “amateurs,” an observation that fueled outrage on social media and among TV pundits.

However, the key point is being overlooked, one that Verstappen himself highlighted in the post-qualifying press conference. He noted the difficulty of staying within track limits due to tires heating up and losing grip in the fast-paced layout. He also pointed out how minor errors can result in understeering and crossing the white line.

Complaints about ‘how things used to be’ and how ‘this isn’t a problem in Monaco’ are irrelevant distractions. Instead, the focus should be on how challenging it is to maintain within the track limits in Austria.

Take Charles Leclerc’s final lap in Q3 for example. His daring cornering could have won him the pole position, but a minor slip cost him. These efforts and near successes should be lauded, rather than criticized.

Those drivers who pushed the limits and had their laps invalidated aren’t “idiots” – they were simply pushing their abilities to the limit, as demonstrated by Verstappen, who managed to post a faster time after having one disqualified for crossing the line.

The key takeaway from this discussion is that pushing to the limit is part of the game, and drivers shouldn’t be discouraged from doing so because of the fear of looking like “amateurs”.

Regarding concerns about track limits, Verstappen’s argument against the installation of temporary gravel traps due to cost and safety considerations for MotoGP is valid. Similarly, drivers’ suggestions for wider white lines or tactile feedback in the cockpit are unnecessary.

The FIA’s 2022 rule change has improved the situation, making the white line definition clear and ending debates about track limits at many circuits.

Despite the difficulty of staying within track limits in Austria, it adds to the spectacle and challenge of the sport. It forces drivers to push their limits, knowing that crossing the line will result in clear sanctions.

This challenge was evident ahead of sprint qualifying, where wet track conditions meant drivers would likely avoid pushing track limits due to the increased risk of spinning.

The issue lies not with the drivers or the rules, but with external complaints about track limits. These complaints influence the drivers’ attitudes towards the matter.

The situation in Austria should remain as it is, allowing everyone to appreciate the challenge of Formula 1 racing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about F1 track limits debate

More about F1 track limits debate

• FIA Track Limits Rules
• 2023 Austrian Grand Prix Results
• Max Verstappen’s take on Track Limits
• Charles Leclerc’s 2023 Austrian Grand Prix Qualifying
• Formula 1 Regulations