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Fernando Alonso Analyzes the Unusual Absence‍ of Safety Cars in Formula 1
Fernando Alonso has put forth an intriguing hypothesis that the unique features of modern racing vehicles might be linked to the notable absence of safety cars in recent Formula 1 events. Currently, F1 is experiencing an unprecedented nine-race span without the deployment of a safety car, a streak not seen since between the 2003 Hungarian Grand Prix and the 2004 Spanish Grand Prix.
This remarkable period also marks F1’s inaugural Singapore Grand Prix held without any interventions from a safety car. While it remains unclear why races have been largely devoid of serious incidents since the previous Spanish GP, Alonso proposes that characteristics inherent to today’s ground-effect cars could play a significant role.
The Unique Nature of Modern Ground-Effect Cars
Alonso points out that these advanced race cars are paradoxically quicker when they are not pushed to their absolute limits, potentially leading to fewer crashes. “These vehicles can be challenging to handle,” noted the Aston Martin driver. “However, one issue is extracting their maximum potential. Sometimes driving at just 90% can yield faster lap times because you avoid causing instability with angle or ride height issues.”
The Dynamics Between Qualifying and Race Performance
He elaborated on how complex car performance can appear once drivers push towards their limits—requirements typical during qualifying rounds. “Take Baku as an example,” he explained further. “I found myself in 15th place during Q1 due to Lando’s malfunction; otherwise, I would have started from P16.” He went on: “Just seven minutes later with new tires fitted for Q2, my time jumped up by over a second—it’s perplexing because I didn’t alter my braking points or preparation yet saw substantial improvement.”
Understanding Performance Fluctuations
Alonso highlighted inconsistencies: Some drivers perform well during Q1 but struggle significantly in Q2 without clear reasons for such performance swings. He mentioned how extensive data collection allows teams to analyze minor variations contributing to slower performances due to unfavorable tuning or setup attitudes that may leave drivers outside their comfort zones.
The Impact on Racing Strategies and Safety Measures
This tendency for drivers collectively operating at around 90% capacity—due primarily to considerations around tire longevity and fuel management—contributes further toward minimizing incidents requiring safety car intervention according to Alonso’s assessment.
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The post Alonso Unveils Intriguing Theory Behind F1’s Ongoing Safety Car Drought! first appeared on News Sports.
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Author : News-Sports
Publish date : 2024-10-08 09:59:50
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