Track limits: We debate how to fix F1's most contentious issue
Nov 13, 2023
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The podcast debates the contentious issue of track limits in Formula 1, discussing flaws in the review process and proposing solutions such as advanced technology enforcement and physical barriers. They emphasize the importance of accountability, consistency, and preventing drivers from exploiting track limits. The speakers propose alternative solutions like inverse track limits, clear rules, and natural deterrents. The chapter explores the complexity of balancing safety and competitiveness in finding a solution.
Glenn suggests using textured curbs behind the white line to provide physical feedback and discourage drivers from exceeding track limits.
Ben proposes the installation of curbs or bumps in problematic corners to penalize drivers for going too wide and reduce the need for meticulous policing.
Scott advocates for a consistent approach to track limits, using natural deterrents like grass or gravel and implementing artificial deterrents where necessary.
Deep dives
Stick with the current system and improve policing
Glenn suggests sticking with the current system, where the white line serves as the track limit. He emphasizes the need for faster and more efficient policing processes and argues for the installation of textured curbs behind the white line to provide drivers with a physical sensation when they approach the edge. This would discourage drivers from going beyond the limits and maintain a fair and consistent approach.
Install physical limits in key corners
Ben proposes the installation of physical limits in problematic corners where drivers tend to exceed track limits. He suggests using curbs or bumps that would penalize drivers for going too far, damaging the car or risking tire failure. Ben argues that this would deter drivers from taking advantage of track limits and reduce the need for meticulous policing and penalties.
Adopt a consistent and communicated approach
Scott advocates for a consistent approach to track limits, where the rules are clear and communicated in advance. He acknowledges the flawed implementation of track limits in the past but suggests identifying circuits and corners with natural deterrents on the outside, such as grass or gravel. A clear distinction would be made for tracks without natural limits, where artificial deterrents like curbs or bumps would be installed. This approach would require consistency, clear communication, and no mid-weekend rule changes.
Enhance the penalty system to consider circumstances
All three contributors agree that the current penalty system for track limits needs improvement. They propose a more nuanced approach that takes into account the circumstances and intentions of the driver. They argue for greater flexibility in penalties and avoid punishing drivers for unintentional errors or incidents caused by changing track conditions. The focus is on fairness, consistency, and ensuring that penalties fit the specific situation.
The importance of natural track limits and minimal intervention
The podcast discusses the significance of natural track limits and the need for minimal intervention in enforcing track limits. The speakers highlight that drivers should be discouraged from going beyond the white line on the exit of corners, rather than focusing on corner cutting. They suggest that the presence of grass or gravel on the outside of corners can act as self-policing deterrents, as it slows down the cars and avoids the need for manual track limit enforcement. This approach reduces inconsistencies and the burden on stewards, while still giving a reason to implement artificial deterrents on corners without natural track limits.
Solutions for track limits and the importance of research
The podcast explores different potential solutions for enforcing track limits in areas without natural deterrence. The speakers propose implementing dedicated track furniture or runoff surfaces that make going offline slower or disadvantageous. Suggestions include bollards on the apex of corners, slippery or super abrasive surfaces, or extension of the track limits through grass or gravel. They emphasize the need for proper research, testing, and collaboration between sanctioning bodies to find effective and consistent solutions. While acknowledging the complexity of the problem, they stress the importance of investing time and effort into the issue to ensure self-policing track limits and minimum intervention.
Track limits - it's become a phrase we hear nearly every Grand Prix weekend, with drivers, journalists, commentators and fans all having their say on drivers straying beyond the limits of the circuit and how to punish them if they do. We've seen lap times deleted in qualifying, drivers being penalised for gaining an advantage in races and, more recently, a post-race protest in the US from Haas, aimed at recovering points from drivers who repeatedly strayed beyond track limits but weren't punished. Clearly, this is state of affairs that needs to be fixed, so as the end of the season approaches, Edd Straw is joined by Scott Mitchell-Malm, Glenn Freeman and Ben Anderson for a debate on tracks limits, with each of them presenting their vision for how to solve F1's most contentious issue for good.
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