Mid-Week Motorsport Headlines – 12th May 2022

F1

Following two crashes directly into concrete walls during practice in Miami, the questions about Tech Pro barriers, and where they should be installed has come up again. There really should have been some of it where those incidents happened, however, I feel like the FIA and F1 need to look into a better solution for cushioning crashes. The Tech Pro barrier does do its job; however, it is quite bulky, and can easily be ripped apart, which requires plenty of work to be done. Personally, I think tyres should be used more often, as they are effective, and means that car tyres aren’t just being scrapped after use.

Sainz has admitted that due to not doing full race distances at Australia or Imola, he wasn’t fully race fit for the Miami Grand Prix. This along with his practice crash, may have taken a toll on him during the race.

IndyCar

At the Indy GP this weekend, IndyCar will debut an electronic marshal system, just like we have seen in other major racing categories. The screens will be around the track, and hope to increase safety and awareness for all, during on track action. This is a great step forward for the sport, and arguably should have come in sooner, especially given how chaotic IndyCar can be. I wonder if it will be rolled out everywhere, such as for the 500 later this month.

McLaren are soon to confirm a long term deal with O’Ward to continue with them for the foreseeable future. It is a great partnership, despite their rough patches. It is also rumoured that Rossi may leave Andretti Autosport to join the team.

Formula E

Marrakesh will replace Vancouver on this year’s schedule, having hosted the series a few times in the past. It is actually a good venue for Formula E, as we have seen some great races there, along with our fair share of drama.

MotoGP

Both Suzuki riders have not taken the news well that the manufacturer is leaving the sport. This is unsurprising, although the nature in which this has all happened is rather interesting. They are leaving behind two great riders, who may struggle to find a seat, although Mir is already being hinted at going to Honda.

World Superbike star, Razgatlioglu, will test the Yamaha sometime soon, and Yamaha are saying it is an evaluation for 2023. With none of the riders preforming on their current bike apart from Fabio, the door is definitely open for him to join the MotoGP squad.

-M

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