P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Steel skid blocks which effectively “wear down like butter” could force Formula 1 teams to raise their car ride-heights later this year if they are made mandatory at specific grands prix
Steel skid blocks, which wear down faster than titanium, may lead to Formula 1 teams increasing their car ride-heights due to potential mandatory use at certain Grand Prix events later this year. The FIA has requested teams to test these new steel skid blocks during practice sessions at Barcelona to reduce intense sparks and prevent grass fires like those seen at the Japanese GP. The increased weight and faster wear of the steel blocks are causing technical concerns for teams, potentially requiring adjustments in car setup and ride heights. Sauber’s sporting director mentioned the need for different setups to accommodate the quicker wear of steel compared to titanium blocks. The impact of these changes will be monitored during practice sessions to determine the extent of adjustments needed at bumpy circuits with significant kerb riding. While opinions on the new steel skid blocks vary among teams, the final decision on their implementation rests with the FIA in ensuring safety measures are met in Formula 1.
