P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 drivers call for permanent track limits fix
Seventy-six laps were deleted in FP1 in Austin due to drivers exceeding track limits by going beyond the painted white lines. Concerns arose that track limits would continue to be an issue, as seen in the previous race in Qatar where laps were deleted in qualifying and penalties were given out in the GP. In response to pressure from the drivers, the FIA widened the lines at Turns 9, 12, and 19 to allow for more leeway. However, in the sprint race, 17 laps were still deleted, prompting drivers to praise the quick response but express the need for a long-term solution. Valtteri Bottas emphasized that there should be a clear and defined limit, such as a gravel strip or sausage curb, to prevent drivers from gaining an advantage by going wide. Pierre Gasly and other drivers echoed the sentiment that a permanent solution should be found to improve the situation. Although the wider lines were seen as a temporary fix, some drivers, like Sergio Perez, felt that inconsistencies still existed in penalizing drivers who exceeded the track limits.
Source: motorsport
