The GPDA against the ban on heated blankets
The GPDA – or Grand Prix Drivers Association – has expressed to the FIA their dissatisfaction with the planned ban on tire warmers for 2009. Indeed, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) specified in a statement its intention to reduce the grip of single-seaters in 2009, compensated by the return of slick tires – completely smooth. […]
The GPDA – or Grand Prix Drivers Association – has expressed to the FIA their dissatisfaction with the planned ban on tire warmers for 2009.
Indeed, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) specified in a statement its intention to reduce the grip of single-seaters in 2009, compensated by the return of slick tires – completely smooth. However, the drivers do not agree, and according to their spokesperson, the Red Bull driver, things would only get worse.
« I am very concerned about what the temperature differences between the races and the qualifications could have as a consequence… » Admitted the Scot.
« I spoke to several of my colleagues about it, and we all agree on thermal blankets. Indeed, if a single-seater returns to the track after a pit stop among all the others who have already had time to warm up their tires, it’s very dangerous! There’s a huge speed difference! » Exclaimed the veteran of the field.
The latest tests in Jerez also showed that a car with cold tires was much slower – by about 4 seconds – than a car with tires at optimal temperature, which also caused a decrease in tire pressure when cold and a risk of puncture.
According to Coulthard, this situation is reminiscent of the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, where a drop in tire pressure was likely the cause of Ayrton Senna’s fatal accident.
To address this, the Red Bull driver has promised to meet with the GPDA during winter testing in January.
He stated, “It’s a serious issue that mainly concerns security. I intend to discuss it with the GPDA. There are no more meetings this year, but we will look into the matter in 2008.”
Coulthard also gave his opinion on the tests conducted without traction control. « I was able to drive a single-seater without traction control and especially with slick tires. It is totally different. It’s a bit more difficult in the corners… »
« But we must not forget one thing… very important… I was piloting with the 2008 aerodynamic system… yet in 2009 it will be even less efficient. » he concluded.
