Alpine would be ready to accept anti-dolphinage measures
During the Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA introduced new measures against sandbagging. Alpine says they are ready to accept them, provided that no team is given an advantage.
It is a phenomenon present since the beginning of the season and it is unpleasant for the drivers. At high speeds, the cars are bouncing up and down, which can have consequences on the drivers’ health. Mercedes, one of the most affected teams, measured the impacts at 10 G in Baku, and their driver, Lewis Hamilton, experienced significant back pain.
Facing the problem, the FIA decided to take action and implemented a new technical directive in an attempt to stem this phenomenon.
If Alpine is one of the teams least affected, some bumps have been observed in Montreal, but still states that it is a real problem. Otmar Szafnauer indicated that he would accept the measures that the FIA could take, provided they do not favor anyone.
“If the FIA determines that it is a safety matter, as long as the playing conditions remain equal and certain teams do not use it as a negotiating tactic to gain a competitive advantage, then I am satisfied,” he stated.
« We will therefore never oppose anything for safety reasons. If it is a safety issue, it will be submitted to the TAC [Technical Advisory Committee], then proposed to the World Motor Sport Council and finally voted on. But I don’t know what will happen with the “porpoising”. I hope it will be discussed in front of the TAC. »