Should the Albert Park circuit be modified?

The 2019 Formula 1 season kicks off in Melbourne (Australia) did not offer a multitude of overs. With its nature as a street circuit and a majority of fast turns, the Albert Park track was not really suited to it as the drivers had announced.

However, some specifics of the 5,303 km long circuit could be modified in the future, starting with the surfacing. “It’s quite bumpy, indicated Sergio Pérez (Racing Point). Every year we come here, and it's one of the roughest places (from the calendar), this could be improved. »

A volta from pole position Lewis Hamilton at Albert Park. pic.twitter.com/Tyum7Q78EF

— Formula 1 (@F1_90Goals) March 16, 2019

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) stands against this possible work. “ I like the circuit as it is. It's a great track because there are no huge runoff areas. If you put a wheel in the grass, you usually pay the price. This is how it should be en F1."

The reigning world champion believes that “Moguls are part of Melbourne’s character and (the) doesn't like circuits that are super flat and fluid, it doesn't cause any problems. » The Australian GP Corporation, the organizer of the event, is seriously evaluating a resurfacing “if the FIA ​​and the drivers express the need ». 

Another question mark, the shoulders were criticized after the incident of Daniel Ricciardo (Renault) at the beginning. The Australian exploded his front wing while going through the grass along the pit wall then into a hole. 

“There has been a crossing of tracks at this location for 24 years, explains Andrew Westacott, boss of the Australian GP Corporation. There was a slight waviness or surface difference and this caused the problem. It is certainly something that is easily repairable, at any time. »

Find the analysis of the Australian GP carried out by our special correspondents in issue 2208 of AUTOhebdo, available Monday evening digitally and Wednesday on newsstands.