The concerns ahead of the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix are real. The combination of a very narrow track and the width of the latest generation of Formula 1 single-seaters could end up leading to different problems.
One of the main fears is related to visibility. In the 2022 cars it is reduced compared to the previous single-seaters due to the larger dimensions of the 18-inch wheels. On the other hand, which is not the responsibility of the drivers, the management of the curbs with such rigid cars is also a concern, an issue that already caused some headaches in Miami.
There are many questions that will not find an answer until the end of free practice on Friday. Despite this, the pilots have already expressed their doubts about it.
“It will be a great challenge”, said Carlos Sainz, “Regarding the curbs, we tested how hard they are for a driver in Imola and Miami, with this single-seater philosophy, it is clear that the price to pay is greater instability of the part behind”.
“I think we have to open a debate, the regulations are excellent in many aspects, but there are several problems in terms of the damage that all riders suffer in the neck and back. Perhaps there are those who think that this is the price to pay for being a driver who races in Formula 1, but it is necessary to make the problem visible. Monaco will be tough, and not only Monaco”.
Regarding visibility, the pilots agree that the situation has worsened compared to last year, but all assure that their ability to adapt momentarily will compensate for the situation.
“Seeing the apex of the curve is now more difficult,” explained Kevin Magnussen. “But it won’t be a big deal, and in the end we’re all in the same boat.”
“I expect the difficulties we already had in Jeddah, where it wasn’t easy, my eyes suffered a bit, but race after race you get used to it. I also think we will be slower than in previous editions because of the philosophy of these cars,” said Alexander Albon .
Obviously the teams will have to find a good set-up, but this year, with all the added ground clearance and such, on the street circuits, and in Monaco in particular, the feeling of the driver with the car and the track is crucial. to have good performance.
Then, if the curbs prove to be particularly difficult for the drivers, the engineers will assess the possibility of lifting the car higher than desired, with the consequent loss of downforce that the driver could compensate for, a scenario unique to Monaco.
On the equipment side, there is also concern. In Barcelona, everyone (except Haas) brought some technical updates, and in some cases quite important ones.
The problem now for the teams is to make sure they have spare parts for Monte Carlo, as any minor mistake in Monaco usually comes at a very high price.
“We are still behind in this regard,” confirmed Aston Martin boss Andrew Green . “The amount of new parts that we brought to Barcelona required a lot of effort and we hope we don’t have to pay a very high price now. We will try to approach the weekend calmly, but obviously in Monaco you can’t ask a driver for ‘zero risk’. , it is impossible”.
