A new kerb has been fitted at the exit to the swimming pool complex for the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, in a bid to once again stop drivers from cutting corners and gaining an advantage.
The large yellow kerb, which has been placed on the apex, is one of a number of changes made to the Monte Carlo track, which also includes an adjustment to the speed bumps in the same section, as well as on the entry to La Rascasse.
The TecPro barriers have also been strengthened, whilst the asphalt has received a substantial re-coat across a good portion of the track
The idea behind the amendments is to stop drivers from taking risks, by making running wide a bigger disadvantage than it has been in the past. Some drivers are unhappy with the introduction of the aggressive kerb added to the swimming pool complex however, stating that it will do more harm than good.
Haas F1 Team driver and new GPDA Director Romain Grosjean, believes its large size could see it act as a launch pad, making touching it a dangerous obstacle for drivers, as he explained to motorsport.com.
I don’t really know why [they’ve done it] – maybe for the Porsche! But the bigger yellow thing – don’t touch it when you are in a F1 car!
“It looks like a taking off ramp. If you clip your front wing, it could take it [off] because you’ve made a small mistake and it will fly you straight into the wall.
“Before, there was a big one [kerb] there, and taking it you were losing time anyway, so I was a bit surprised to see that.”
Sahara Force India F1 Team driver Sergio Perez agrees with the Frenchman, and does not see the point of its inclusion.
“It is far too big, I don’t think there is a need to have such a big kerb.
“I think the one we had before was big enough and if you hit it, it will send you to the wall. So I think this one will probably send you to the grandstand.”
