Jul.26 (GMM) Crumbling asphalt has put Method 1 officers on alert forward of the Hungarian GP, with considerations that worsening monitor harm may even interrupt Sunday’s race.
Nico Hulkenberg had already described the resurfaced sections as a “patchwork quilt” on Thursday, whereas drivers encountered bumps, mud, inconsistent grip and free stones all through follow and qualifying.
Essentially the most significant issue emerged within the ultimate nook, the place the asphalt started breaking up instantly on the racing line.
George Russell was scathing.
“They’ve re-laid a 3rd of the monitor, and sadly, it’s a horrible job,” mentioned the Mercedes driver. “There actually are numerous bumps.”
“The monitor crumbles within the final nook, forcing drivers to drive in the midst of the nook. They’ll’t discover their line, and that’s not regular.”
Oscar Piastri additionally criticised the patched floor.
“The monitor floor is sort of unusual in some locations, particularly on the brand new sections the place it was worn and a few strips of asphalt have been added,” he mentioned.
The matter was raised throughout Friday’s drivers’ briefing earlier than race director Rui Marques and different FIA officers inspected the circuit.
Repairs had been then carried out in a single day, notably in Flip 1.
“Two sections had been repaired, one within the zone and the opposite to the proper of the zone the place the overtaking automobile should move,” an FIA official confirmed.
Nevertheless, probably the most badly deteriorating sections elsewhere had been largely left untouched.
Auto Motor und Sport studies that officers are hoping to keep away from a repeat of Monaco, the place related monitor harm compelled a pink flag and emergency repairs.
Pirelli has additionally warned that the rougher, low-grip floor may improve sliding, tyre temperatures and put on because the race progresses, notably in visitors.
