"I almost fell asleep" - F1 drivers push for Madrid track changes after "very poor" Spanish GP
Key Points:
- The 2024 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring was widely criticized by drivers and media for its lack of overtaking opportunities, resulting in a race considered boring and unentertaining despite an exciting qualifying session.
- Drivers like Max Verstappen, Kimi Antonelli, and Oliver Bearman highlighted the track's design flaws, particularly around Turns 3-6 and 18-19, which make overtaking difficult and risky, often leading to potential crashes if attempted.
- Suggestions for improving the Madring include removing or redesigning the chicane between Turns 5 and 6, modifying the banking at Turn 13, eliminating Turns 18 and 19 for a more straightforward approach, and shortening the pit lane to encourage strategic variation.
- Junior category races also reflected the same overtaking issues, reinforcing the need for track modifications before the 2027 season to enhance race competitiveness and driver safety.
- Drivers emphasized the importance of involving them in future circuit design decisions to avoid similar problems, citing past experiences where driver feedback was not adequately considered.