P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Verstappen: Addressing loose drain cover issue in F1 “a must”
Several recent incidents involving drain covers coming loose at tracks have raised concerns about the current generation of high downforce ground effect cars potentially triggering problems due to the forces involved. Testing in Bahrain was halted on Thursday and Friday following loose drain covers, similar to the incident that damaged Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari in Las Vegas a few months ago. Organizers in Bahrain plan to fill in drains with concrete as a temporary solution before the upcoming Grand Prix, although drivers have expressed worries about possible incidents at other venues. World champion Verstappen highlighted the increased risk with ground effect cars and emphasized the importance of checking the stability of drain covers before each race weekend, especially with the budget cap in place. Team members like Leclerc and Hamilton have echoed the need for serious action to prevent potential accidents and ensure the safety of drivers on the track.
