F1 Austrian GP: Track Limit Fix, Magnussen’s Parental Dilemma, and Paddock Buzz Revealed

Paddock insider discusses efforts to address track limit issues at F1 Austrian GP

Our correspondent on the ground shares the inside scoop you may have overlooked.

Lewis Larkam from Crash.net provides a summary of all the latest news and updates from the Spielberg paddock following Thursday's media briefings in preparation for the F1 Austrian Grand Prix.

Possible fix for Austria’s track limits issue?

To address the ongoing track limits challenges at the Red Bull Ring, a new kerb and gravel trap have been installed at the last two corners of the circuit.

A gravel path, measuring 2.5 meters in width, has been placed immediately behind the curb at the exit of Turns 9 and 10 on the left side. Additionally, the white line has been repositioned at Turns 1, 3, 4, and 6.

Implementing a light blue line to distinguish the white lines more clearly is expected to expedite the decision-making process in investigations of potential violations.

"This is what we believe to be the ideal arrangement," stated FIA race director Niels Wittich. "The feedback we've received from the drivers has been favorable so far."

"This is because, ultimately, it settles any debates about whether drivers save time or not. I'm confident there won't be any issues with track limits."

Kevin Magnussen is reluctant about his children getting into racing

Kevin Magnussen expressed that hearing about the tragic death of a nine-year-old Argentine racer in a crash at Interlagos deeply saddens him. He mentioned that it creates a difficult situation for parents who want to support their children's dreams in motorsport.

When questioned by Crash.net about whether he would encourage his two daughters to seek a career in racing, the Haas driver responded, “I won’t be urging them to do that. In fact, I hope they choose a different path. My wish is for them to discover their own passion in life, but I’d prefer it not to be racing.”

McLaren unveils temporary hospitality facility

According to a report by Crash.net from Barcelona, McLaren has arranged a different hospitality structure for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, following a presumed electrical fire last week.

The rented unit is considerably more compact than McLaren’s standard ‘TeamHub’ headquarters. However, the team now has their own designated area within the Red Bull paddock, thanks to assistance from other teams and the FIA last weekend.

McLaren is optimistic that they might be able to utilize their regular hospitality services for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone next weekend.

McLaren has set up a more compact hospitality area for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix this weekend. #AustrianGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/k3m0mvy4gO— Lewis Larkam (@Lewis_Larkam) June 27, 2024

Pierre Gasly, who has recently joined Alpine, expressed his desire for the team to choose the "quickest driver available" as his colleague for the 2025 Formula 1 season. He emphasized the importance of having a "strong benchmark" to measure his own performance.

Gasly expressed his position clearly, stating that he simply wants the quickest driver on the team. He emphasized the importance of having a strong standard to measure against.

“I’ve previously worked with skilled teammates, and Esteban [Ocon] is talented. Ideally, we can find a replacement who is the fastest and most capable driver available.”

Daniel Ricciardo has acknowledged that he doesn't have any alternatives apart from RB for the 2025 season. He appears to be gearing up for a direct competition with Liam Lawson for the second spot next to Yuki Tsunoda at Red Bull's affiliate team.

"I don't mean to come off as obstinate or conceited, but I'm not considering any other options," Ricciardo stated firmly. "As I've mentioned before, I genuinely relish being back with the team."

"I strangely find that occasional jabs from Helmut Marko, the Red Bull motorsport advisor, can be enjoyable. They can serve to motivate me and help me perform at my best."

Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen disagree on the inclusion of motorsports in the Olympics

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc is enthusiastic about the idea of adding motorsports to the Olympic Games.

Speaking about his experience carrying the Olympic torch in Monaco recently, Leclerc remarked, “Including motorsports in the Olympics would be fantastic. Nevertheless, I believe it poses a greater challenge to coordinate compared to other sports, primarily because in Formula 1, we compete with various manufacturers and different cars.”

"In order to have identical cars, you’ll need to decide on factors like the route, downforce, and horsepower. It’s certainly achievable, and I would be thrilled to represent Monaco."

Max Verstappen isn’t enthusiastic about the concept. "Honestly, it's just not my thing, I don't have any desire for it," said the current world champion from Red Bull. "I don't believe our place is at the Olympics. That’s okay, though, because we have our own championship, which I believe is very well appreciated."

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