The 2023 Qatar Grand Prix was catastrophic for both drivers and fans, with extreme heat, tires on the brink of failure, and unprecedented strategies imposed by the FIA, the organisation in charge of the racing rules.
Pirelli and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile have taken drastic measures to prevent another disaster for the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix starting in few days. Let’s break down the changes for this crucial event under Losail’s scorching sun.
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The demons of 2023: Overheating tires and relentless pace
Last year, the Losail circuit shook more than just its grandstands. The infamous “pyramidal” curbs, with their aggressive 50 mm edges, caused microscopic but critical damage to tire sidewalls, especially in high-speed corners. As a result, the FIA imposed a maximum limit of 18 laps per tire set, forcing teams into three-stop strategies. This pushed drivers to maintain near-qualifying pace throughout the race. Combined with record-breaking heat, the event became a nightmare for driver endurance, with some even calling it the “most grueling GP of the season.” With tires on the verge of failure and drivers physically drained, safety became the number one priority.
Physical changes to the circuit
For the 2024 Qatar GP, the Losail circuit has undergone key modifications to enhance safety. The sharp peaks of the pyramidal curbs have been rounded in several critical corners, including Turns 1, 2, 4, and 10, as well as the technical sequence from Turns 12 to 14. Additionally, gravel strips have been added behind certain curbs to deter drivers from taking excessive risks. These changes aim to reduce stress on the tires while penalizing those who exceed track limits. Meanwhile, Pirelli conducted extensive testing at its research center in Milan, simulating race conditions with prototypes of the new curbs. The goal: to ensure the 2024 tires can withstand the extreme forces generated on Qatar’s asphalt.
A preventive strategy to tame Losail
Acknowledging that Losail remains one of the season’s most demanding circuits, Pirelli has chosen the three hardest compounds in its range. This decision is supported by data collected during recent tests on the track, even though those tests were conducted with older-generation cars. To avoid any surprises, Pirelli and the FIA have also collaborated on real-time tire performance monitoring throughout the weekend. This means that, if any warning signs arise, measures similar to those implemented in 2023 could be quickly enforced. While these precautions promise greater safety, they don’t eliminate the challenge entirely. With high temperatures expected once again, the durability of both F1 tires and drivers will continue to be severely tested.
This article explores the lessons learned from the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix fiasco and the technical measures implemented for 2024. From track modifications and intensive Pirelli testing to enhanced monitoring throughout the weekend, every effort has been made to ensure a safer race. But on such a demanding circuit, one thing is certain: Losail forgives no weakness.
Image: Red Bull Content pool
