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FIA modifies Red Bull Ring kerbs after Friday issues

The FIA has made some minor changes to the kerbs at the last two corners of the Red Bull Ring after several drivers suffered damage when they ran wide in practice on Friday.

Stoffel Vandoorne, McLaren MCL32

Kerbs have been an issue in the past at the venue, and there were some changes for this year, with the spacing between the "baguette" kerbs increased to 3.2m.

Some drivers faced issues, especially as they regained the track after an excursion, and ran over the kerbs.

Among those to suffer damage at Turns 9 and 10 on Friday were Romain Grosjean and Felipe Massa, but other drivers were also frustrated.

"This is not the highest-grip track and with the higher speeds this year," said Max Verstappen. "if you have a moment, it is difficult to correct without hitting a kerb or going through the gravel, which a lot of people have experienced today.

"The yellow kerbs were definitely a challenge, and I think maybe they are not the type of kerbs for Formula 1, the cars just aren't designed for it."

The FIA and race organisers addressed the issues on Friday evening.

The kerb on the exit of Turn 9 has been repaired, as the soil behind the gully drain had become eroded, making it more exposed than it should have been.

Meanwhile, two of the "baguette" elements have been moved closer to Turn 10, to allow drivers running very wide in Turn 9 to get back on the track without going right over them.

 

Turn 9 Kerb
Turn 9 Kerb

Photo by: FIA

 

 

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