P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Two of the three days of pre-season testing have been hit by loose drain covers at Turn 11 bringing out red flags. What is causing the spate of issues?
It is important to distinguish between the drain cover incidents in Bahrain pre-season testing and those in Las Vegas. The incidents in Vegas were caused by improperly welded down drain covers, leading to damage to Carlos Sainz and Esteban Ocon’s cars. Ferrari is still negotiating a settlement for the Las Vegas damage. In Bahrain, the recent incidents at Turn 11 involve drivers lifting the drain covers on the right-hand side by going off-track limits. This issue may be exacerbated by the increased suction from the ground-effect rules. Loose drain covers are usually seen on street circuits, making the Bahrain International Circuit’s incidents unusual. F1 and the FIA should collaborate with tracks to ensure track infrastructure is secure and prevent future incidents. Check out the 2024 F1 calendar for all the upcoming action without missing a beat.
