The controversial ultimate chicane on the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been eliminated forward of this yr’s Grand Prix.
The chicane was added in 2007 in a bid to help overtaking, nevertheless, in recent times it has been the scene of quite a few ‘visitors jams’ as drivers search a spot forward of their qualifying runs and due to this fact turn out to be a security concern.
With the intention to perform the change, the FIA demanded new TECPRO boundaries on the ultimate two corners.
Stuart Robertson, Head of Circuit and Rally Security on the FIA, and Niels Wittich, Components 1 Race Director and Security Delegate, have been accountable for approving this modification throughout their inspection of the monitor on the finish of January, which additionally included the approval of a brand new a lot wider run-off space at Flip 1 the place a 70 metre gravel run-off has been put in together with a brand new security fence at Turns 1 and a pair of, thus considerably bettering the protection of drivers.
With this modification, the Barcelona monitor can proceed to host races whereas a second part of works is being carried out which impacts the service roads surrounding the realm and part of the general public space. This second part is scheduled to be completed by the top of March.
The long-lasting ‘scoreboard’ on the pit lane exit has additionally been remodelled, organisers having put in new “extra trendy” signalling tower.
Different work carried out on the monitor contains portray, changing a number of the kerbs and renewing tyres boundaries.
The previous hospitality areas referred to as Company Lounges will characteristic a brand new format and turn out to be open-plan, whereas the everlasting bogs within the fan areas can even be refurbished in time for the 2023 season.
