The perennial challenge of poor visibility during wet Formula 1 races has long plagued drivers and race officials, leading to contentious delays and safety concerns. Veteran driver Fernando Alonso, known for his outspoken nature, has now tabled a truly audacious proposal aimed at revolutionizing safety and raceability in treacherous conditions, one that could significantly impact the future of F1 wet weather racing.
The issue came to a head most recently at the Belgian Grand Prix, where an extensive delay and numerous safety car laps underscored the critical problem. While some attributed the stoppages to overly cautious race control, drivers largely emphasized a profound lack of visibility due to excessive spray, rather than insufficient grip. This situation highlighted how challenging conditions can become for participants, affecting their ability to compete safely.
Fernando Alonso believes the root of the problem traces back to the introduction of wider cars and tyres in 2017, which he posits exacerbated spray generation. His radical solution, however, goes beyond vehicle design, suggesting that grand prix circuits themselves could be resurfaced with a specific type of asphalt engineered to dramatically reduce water dispersion.
Drawing parallels to modern highways that exhibit minimal spray even during heavy rainfall, Alonso points to the “new generation of asphalt” used on many circuits. He argues these surfaces, while offering superior grip in dry conditions, act “like a mirror” when wet, intensifying the spray. Conversely, he recalls older circuits, such as Sepang in Malaysia, where racing in significant water levels was historically manageable, supporting his case for track resurfacing.
Implementing Alonso’s vision of widespread track resurfacing would undoubtedly entail an enormous financial undertaking for circuit owners, a factor likely to be met with considerable resistance. Beyond the prohibitive cost, such a dramatic alteration to racing surfaces could also introduce unforeseen variables, potentially impacting tyre degradation and overall performance during dry conditions.
The concept of Open Graded Friction Course (OGFC) asphalt, often used on highways, provides a technical basis for Alonso’s idea, yet its application in Formula 1 racing presents unique challenges. While designed to allow water to drain through its porous structure, this more open grading could severely affect tyre life and grip at the extreme temperatures and forces experienced by F1 cars. Furthermore, issues such as sand or debris clogging the voids, as seen in venues like Bahrain, could diminish its effectiveness.
Despite his bold suggestions, Alonso acknowledges the immense pressure on race control officials when making critical safety decisions. He expressed understanding for the conservative approach taken, emphasizing that preventing a “massive accident because of a lack of visibility” and potential fatalities far outweighs the desire for earlier racing, a sentiment central to race visibility discussions.
Looking ahead, upcoming changes in Formula 1 car design, including narrower cars and a reduction in ground effect for the next season, are anticipated to inherently lessen the amount of spray generated. These design modifications could complement any potential advancements in track technology, offering a multi-faceted approach to the persistent challenge of F1 wet weather.
Fernando Alonso’s willingness to propose such an innovative yet costly solution underscores the urgency of addressing wet race visibility in Formula 1. While the feasibility of his asphalt idea remains a subject for extensive debate and research, it undeniably sparks a vital conversation about pioneering technological advancements for enhanced safety and more consistent racing in adverse conditions.
