Singapore Grand Prix: Circuit Changes

It has been revealed that officials at the Singapore Grand Prix have made changes to the kerbs at the Turn 10 chicane.

Drivers had reported that the high bumps, put out to stop cars cutting the chicane, were potentially dangerous, should a car run wide.

The drivers were worried that hitting the bumps could cause suspension damage or even damage a tub. They also raised concerns that the bumps would pitch them into the wall on the outside of the corner.

Jenson Button of Honda said:

“If you run over that kerb it is going to do a tub and probably your spine as well. It is strange we haven’t tested it before, and only here.

“I know the reason for it as it is to stop us cutting the kerbs which is understandable, but it doesn’t account for a locked up wheel or a failure.”

F1 Race Director Charlie Whiting made an inspection on Thursday afternoon, with modifications made to the second kerb ahead of today’s practice session.

As a result of the modification, the bumps have been ground down with smoother edges – meaning cars will simply ride over them in the event of a driver mistake.

Neal’s View: This will be a test of drivers’ mettle. How close to these kerbs are they prepared to get?