P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 teams and Pirelli had no warning of "painted" Shanghai track surface
Upon arriving at the circuit on Wednesday, F1 teams were surprised by the visibly different track surface, which had a liquid bitumen treatment applied last year to reduce asphalt degradation. This treatment had impacted grip levels on the track, causing a two-tone appearance due to wear in some areas. The FIA did not provide any prior notification about this treatment to teams and Pirelli, leading to the surprise during track inspection. F1 chief engineer Simone Berra stated that there was no indication from the FIA about the surface change, prompting a discussion in Friday’s team managers’ meeting with F1 race director Niels Wittich. Despite the lack of communication, the grip levels improved gradually during practice sessions, with plans for better coordination between the FIA and circuits in the future and a complete resurfacing of Shanghai circuit set for 2025.
