Ferrari Denounces Bumpy São Paulo Track: Safety Concerns Rise Ahead of Brazilian Grand Prix
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr. have voiced their concerns about the undulating surface of the Interlagos circuit in São Paulo, raising safety concerns ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The drivers, during the Friday practice sessions, encountered significant bumps and undulations on the track, particularly in the final sector. These bumps have prompted worries about potential car damage and driver safety, prompting Ferrari to call for action before the race weekend begins.
"The bumps are pretty big, and they're getting worse," stated Leclerc, who finished the first practice session in second place. "It's a shame because it's a great track, but the bumps are affecting the car. I'm not sure if they're dangerous, but it's something that needs to be addressed."
Sainz echoed Leclerc's concerns, adding that the bumps are "a lot bigger than they were last year." He expressed concern about the potential for a driver to lose control of their car due to the unpredictable nature of the track surface.
"I think it's a safety concern," said Sainz. "You can lose your car very easily on those bumps. You can't really trust the car anymore, which is a bit worrying."
Ferrari's concerns are not unique. Other drivers, like Lewis Hamilton, have also expressed similar worries about the track conditions. The FIA, the governing body of Formula 1, has acknowledged the issue and is currently investigating potential solutions.
However, the limited time before the race weekend starts might not allow for major track modifications. This leaves the drivers, teams, and the FIA in a precarious situation, balancing the desire for a thrilling race with the need to ensure safety for all involved.
The Brazilian Grand Prix is known for its exciting and unpredictable nature, with the challenging Interlagos circuit always offering a captivating spectacle. But the presence of these significant bumps raises questions about whether this year's race will be more about survival than spectacle.
The focus now turns towards the FIA's investigation and any potential remedies that can be implemented to mitigate the risk posed by the bumps. The safety of the drivers must remain paramount, even if it means compromising some of the track's unique characteristics. The Brazilian Grand Prix is a race that fans eagerly anticipate, but the presence of these dangerous bumps could dampen the excitement, turning the spotlight away from the competition and onto the safety concerns that have been raised.