Looking forward to the next one United States Grand Prix In Austin, organizers at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) introduced a series of changes to minimize the track limits issues that generated a lot of controversy last year. During the 2023 race, several drivers had overused the track limits, particularly at Turn 6, crossing the white lines without incurring adequate penalties. The situation had caused such controversy that Haas even requested an official review for what it believed were numerous infringements. Although the FIA rejected the American team's request, the complaints were shared by other teams.
Circuit of the Americas changes in Austin to address issues on track limits
This year, however, the organizers of the Grand Prix have taken decisive measures. As reported by Motorsport.com, among the main changes is the reduction of the asphalt run-off areas at several critical corners of the circuit. The changes aim to avoid a repeat of last year's infringements and to ensure a smoother and more controversy-free race.
One of the most significant changes is the reduction of 1,5 metres of asphalt run-off areas at key points of the track, such as turns 6, 13, 14 and 15. In these areas, the asphalt has been replaced with grass, which should discourage drivers from cutting corners completely, offering a lower level of grip and increasing the risk of error. This change is designed to curb abuse of the white lines, making it more difficult for drivers to exploit the circuit beyond the track limits.
Grass and “fake gravel”: the deterrents against track cuts
One of the most interesting innovations introduced this year is the use of so-called “fake gravel” at the exit of Turn 11. Previously, this area was a tarmac area with “turtle bumps” as a deterrent. Now, however, a resin-bound gravel has been installed that not only prevents riders from exceeding the limits, but also reduces the risk of bringing debris back onto the track, thus avoiding potential safety issues. This type of gravel has already been successfully tested at the Zandvoort circuit, and COTA has decided to adopt it as an experimental measure for 2024.
Austin race promoter Bobby Epstein explained the complexity of balancing the needs of Formula 1 and MotoGP, disciplines that use the same track but have different needs: “You can’t have both asphalt for F1 and gravel for MotoGP in the same place. We had to find a solution that works for both.” This measure is therefore a compromise that allows the circuit to be kept safe for both categories, but with an eye on the needs of Formula 1.
New cameras for more precise monitoring
In addition to the structural changes, COTA has also improved the track limits control system. New cameras have been installed at strategic points on the circuit to more accurately monitor any off-track excursions. This advanced surveillance system will allow race marshals to more accurately detect infringements and apply penalties in a timely manner.
A renewed asphalt to eliminate annoying speed bumps
Not just track limits. The Circuit of the Americas has also undergone a major road surface overhaul. During the 2023 Grand Prix, many drivers reported the presence of annoying bumps that made driving difficult and negatively affected performance. Epstein confirmed that the resurfacing was now necessary, given that some sections of the track were more than 12 years old. “It was time to take action to eliminate the bumps,” Epstein told Motorsport.com. “We are sure that the riders will find a completely new track, and I expect the comments to be very positive.”
