Zandvoort tests ‘fake’ gravel trap idea to help reduce risk of red flag stoppages in Dutch GP. Zandvoort trials 'fake' gravel trap solution for F1 Dutch GP.

The Zandvoort circuit will be using a new and experimental ‘fake’ gravel trap idea for the 2022 Dutch Grand Prix, with the goal of reducing the risk of red flag moments. As reported by Autosport with one day ahead of the track action, the plan is to use this ‘fake’ gravel trap at incorporated at Turn 12 – the second part of the Hans Ernst chicane.

This solution came after the issues seen in the previous season, with cars running wide across the kerbs there and dragging gravel on to the circuit, a situation that has caused red flags in support events. And Zandvoort has now decided to test this interesting option.

Hopeful that in this way they will be able to avoid asphalt run-offs, race organisers have created a special one-metre wide area which begins behind the kerb at Turn 12 where the gravel has been encased in a resin type material. This makes it look like gravel but it in fact totally solid.

As a result, if a car runs slightly wide at the corner, it will not disturb the stones and will therefore not lead to gravel getting pulled on to the racing line which may lead to the intervention of a red flag.

The smooth and bumpy nature of this solid area also means that it will offer minimal grip, so drivers will have to avoid using it too often and getting too near the real gravel.

Following this ‘fake gravel’ is the usual gravel trap that has the purpose of slowing any cars that go well off line.

Dutch GP boss Jan Lammers feels the Zandvoort solution may be used by other venues in the future if the feedback from this weekend will prove to be positive: “To avoid gravel getting on the track, they have made the first metre look like gravel – but it’s actually a bit like tarmac.” – the sporting director of the F1 Dutch Grand Prix explained, in a recent interview with title sponsor Heineken ahead of this weekend’s event – “You can’t really use it: it’s too slippery and bumpy for cars. But at least it avoids getting all kinds of debris on the track, so it’s a nice development for other tracks.” – he added.

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From the off, Dutch GP chiefs have been eager to keep traditional gravel traps at the circuit rather than replacing them with asphalt areas. Former Ferrari boss and current Formula 1 President & Chief Executive Officer, Stefano Domenicali, feels that gravel traps were something that the sport has to continue using, given the fact that this solution is useful to define track limits.

“I do share what Lando says. You see what happened at Spa in Turn 1. Before it was all asphalt and every one at the first corner was out [and ran wide]. That is not really what I personally like. There is a limit in certain tracks where there is the barrier and you take it easy otherwise you crash. The gravel is also a limit, so there’s not even a discussion about the track limits to judge if you are in or you are out.” – Stefano Domenicali concluded.