The changes that have been brought in at the Monza circuit for the Italian Grand Prix are a very hotly debated topic amongst all the Formula One drivers. Changes and upgrades were made to the Monza circuit after last year and several drivers are quite unhappy with these changes. One of the most stinging issues brought in this is the fact that the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) was not consulted before going forward with these changes. The kerbs around several parts of the circuit have been changes especially in the iconic Ascari Chicane part of the track which is a cause of concern.
A track like Monza had it’s own set of challenges with the old kerbs which made it a rewarding drive for the drivers but with the shortening and flattening of the curbs, according to many drivers, ‘The Temple of Speed’ has lost it’s character.
Ongoing Debates In F1 Drivers WhatsApp Group
The chairman of the GPDA Alex Wurz revealed that several discussions and debates were going on in the private WhatsApp groups of the drivers regarding the changes made to the track. There is also the belief going around that Monza is no more of a challenge.
“Yes, we debated the changes today in our chat group. And whilst I have not driven the new kerb layout in Monza, the old kerb situation at corners like Ascari was such a rewarding precision work for drivers.
“As track designer I would have not accepted money to change those kerbs. They did not seem dangerous to me and have been an integral part of the track’s character.
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“Ok, it’s the same for everyone but it is not the first track which lost character going to standard kerbs. The same happened in Brazil, which had its own sweet tricks with the kerbs,” said Wurz while speaking to Autosport.
What The Drivers Think About The New Track Changes?
There has been a common consensus amongst the drivers that the track and kerb changes are not a good move. This is due to the fact that the previous curbs had their own challenge and how to tackle them which the drivers found to be rewarding.
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George Russel while speaking about the track changes said, “The kerbs through Ascari, before they were very unique to Monza.
“You had a bit of a drain that dropped down about 10cm, then it came back up, and you could just poke your inside wheel through these drains. It always created an iconic photo.
“You saw cars drifting through the corners with the inside wheel just dipping into this drain.
“Now they are dead flat, and it’s going to offer the opportunity for drivers to cut the corner.”
Several other drivers also pointed out their concerns regarding the track changes and how they are unhappy and not in support of it.
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