Status: 09.10.2023, 05:24 a.m.
By: Lena Hempler
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The Formula 1 race in Qatar is already causing a stir before the start: The FIA announced a new regulation for all teams a few hours earlier.
Doha – Formula 1 will race in Doha for the second time on Sunday (08.10). The track brings some problems with the car for the teams and drivers.
| Qatar Grand Prix | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 5.38 km |
| Race Length: | 306.66 km in 57 laps |
| Lap record: | 1:23.196 (2021, Max Verstappen, Red Bull) |
| In the race calendar: | since 2021 |
Formula 1 in Doha: Track limits play a major role again this time
Once again, track limits play a major role, with some drivers driving over the white line at the side of the track again in free practice and qualifying, leaving the track. In the race, the drivers are allowed to disregard the track limits a maximum of three times, after which there is a time penalty. Of course, the tyres are enormously important, the less grip the drivers have, the more they slide around, especially when there is dirt on the track.
Wear and tear is quite normal with tyres. But in Doha, after just a few laps, it was already so strong that not only teams and drivers, but also Pirelli itself had safety concerns. Normally, tyres shouldn't wear out so quickly, they do get thinner and have less grip as the race progresses, but not to the same extent. After qualifying on Friday, the FIA then decided that the curbs of the track should be drawn further outwards in two corners.
Max Verstappen also had problems with the tyres. © IMAGO/nordphoto GmbH / Bratic
Qatar Grand Prix: Pirelli tyres not strong enough for the track
Actually, this is how the problem should be fixed. In the sprint race, however, it quickly became apparent that the curbs were not the only issue. As it stands, Pirelli's tyres are simply not strong enough for the track. That shouldn't happen, especially when there's only one tyre manufacturer for Formula 1. The FIA then decided shortly before the start of the race in Doha that there should be a new rule especially for this track and this race.
All drivers are allowed to drive a maximum of 18 laps on the tyres. That means there will be at least three pit stops in Doha if there is a safety car, probably even more. A list has even been published showing all the tyre compounds for each driver and how many laps they are allowed to drive under the new FIA rule. So all teams can see which driver is using which tyres and when he has to make a pit stop! Violations of the tyre laps should be immediately reported to the race control and admonished.
Lewis Hamilton had already spoken out in favour of tyre tests in Qatar before the start of the season. © Tim Goode/PA Wire/dpa
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Formula 1 in Doha: Lewis Hamilton wanted to drive the tests in Qatar
Pirelli and the FIA are also said to be in constant contact with the teams about the remaining tyre laps. This does not reflect well on Pirelli, although the tyre manufacturer is said to have just extended the deal with Formula 1 until at least 2027. Lewis Hamilton had already said months ago that pre-season testing should be held in Qatar because the track has a different effect on the tyres, but this year it was back to Bahrain. Hopefully Pirelli will get the tyre problem under control next year so that there doesn't have to be another special regulation. (lhe)