Following the issues experienced on Friday, the FIA has made a decision regarding the number of mandatory pit stops in the 2023 Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, which is scheduled to take place later today at the Lusail International Circuit
As Mario Isola had previously stated, the Federation was evaluating the introduction of a minimum number of pit stops to prevent tire problems. To do so, it was necessary to gather a lot of data during the Sprint Race to make the correct decision in preparation for the race.
Just a few hours before the lights go out, the official decision has come from the Federation. During the Losail race, it will not be possible to complete more than eighteen laps with the same set of tires. This implies that it will be necessary to make at least three pit stops during the race, as the Grand Prix consists of fifty-seven laps.
If a driver fails to comply with this directive, a black flag will be shown, resulting in immediate disqualification from the race.
The unusual situation in Qatar during this weekend is due to recent changes made to the track. After numerous complaints in 2021, the Losail circuit was completely resurfaced, and new curbs were introduced. It appears that these curbs were the cause of the microfractures observed by Pirelli in the tires. “The problems we have encountered are due to the contact between the tires and the curbs,” Mario Isola said during the shootout qualifying session.
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Source: f1ingenerale
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