Confusion about the World Automobile Association’s directive to reduce the FIA’s “bouncing”, hopping characteristic of the new vehicle generation. The rule-keeper’s interference at the Canadian GP this weekend clearly should not.
First, the data must be collected
In Montreal, only values and experience should be collected initially, McLaren team boss Andreas Seidl confirmed on Friday after training at the Sky microphone. It was originally stated that the necessary data would be collected in the first two training sessions at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, based on which the new rules should be implemented from the third free practice session.
“The data are needed to establish an index based on the vertical acceleration of the vehicle that provides a quantitative range for an acceptable level of vertical vibration.” Translated: The main figure is meant to specify the forces that the driver may be exposed to as a result of the car up and down, combined with a hard impact on the asphalt.
Horner and Wolff: Implementation of Tough Measures to Control
But how should it be checked? Difficult – In this assessment, team owners Red Bull and Mercedes, for once, agree. “I think it just needs a little more discussion to understand how this is being handled,” Red Bull boss Horner said at a news conference in Montreal.
According to Horner, the measures are well thought out, but how they are implemented is important. “What if the conditions change, the wind changes or whatever?” asked the Briton. “I think it will always be a difficulty.” Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff also admits the “bounce” is influenced by external conditions.
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External conditions affect “jumpy” behavior
“The point is that during the weekend the cars bounce at different stages because we also have sessions where we don’t have any ‘bounce’,” says the Mercedes team boss. “Fuel, no fuel, wind, headwind, tailwind, grip level – all affect ‘porpoising’.”
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It is conceivable that a car would comply with the FIA’s “bouncing limits” in qualifying on Saturday, but would not race on Sunday due to changed weather and track conditions. “What will be the result? A disqualification? These are also questions that still have to be clarified. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why the new regulation will not be implemented later this week.
Our expert Felix Gorner explains in the video below what could be the serious implications of the package of measures taken by the FIA.
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Wolff: Look at the problem more fundamentally
Wolff also called for a more fundamental approach: “I think you have to be aware that ground-effect vehicles are a problem overall, and we have to deal with it,” said the Austrian.
Alpine team boss Otmar Szafner fundamentally criticized the FIA’s plans. “We have to make sure it’s fair to everyone, so I don’t think we can introduce rules in the middle of the season to favor one team over the other,” Szafner said. World champion Max Verstappen said something similar: “It doesn’t matter whether it helps or hurts us: I don’t think the rule changes are right over the season,” said the Red Bull star. (WWI)
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