Track limits, kerbs… Qatar makes changes for F1 return

Action, reaction. Like many circuits this season, the organizers of the Qatar Grand Prix have chosen to rework the Losail circuit for the third coming in the history of the F1 in the Gulf country. While the form itself is not impacted, the latter wanted to make some changes to their track to experience a calmer weekend than in 2023.

One of the main new features is gravel traps, some of which have been installed at the exit of various bends. The aim is very clear: to put an end to the problem of track limits. As a reminder, last year, no fewer than 51 infractions concerning these were recorded at the Grand Prix! Pierre Gasly, Sergio Perez, Alex Albon et Lance stroll had even paid the price with penalties, provoking their anger further supported by the decisions taken by the FIA ​​during the weekend after the emergence of a major problem linked to tire delamination. So, the bends affected by these “gravel traps” are 1, 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 14 and 15.

The “softened” vibrators

In addition to the track limits, the kerbs were also at the heart of this facelift by the organizers of the Qatar Grand Prix. Raised, they had been a headache for the drivers and teams who feared damaging the flat bottoms, or even destroying them. It's not so much getting on the vibrators themselves that will be a problem, but more the fact that when you get off them, there will be a sliding effect. (or skateboard) total, because the step looks quite high, " breathed Yuki tsunoda at the time.

Now, these "mountain" kerbs are a thing of the past since most of them have been flattened for the return of the paddock to Losail. Indeed, 7 of the 16 turns of the circuit are affected: 1, 2, 4, 10, 12, 13 and 14. Very specific turns since they are the ones that put the most strain on the tires.

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