FIA defends Monza safety after driver criticism
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-09-14 09:21 Formula One's governing body
has defended safety measures at Monza and rebuked drivers who demanded urgent
changes for next year's Italian Grand Prix.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) issued a statement on Wednesday
highlighting the use of a new high-speed crash barrier that it said was
introduced for the first time at last weekend's race.
The statement also contained a barbed reply to drivers who had expressed
disappointment at the circuit director failing to attend a meeting with them at
the weekend to hear their concerns.
"The owners of circuits licensed for Formula One are required not to discuss
safety measures with third parties (including drivers)," it said.
"This is to prevent self-appointed experts, with little or no understanding
of the latest developments in circuit safety, causing confusion and undermining
the significant safety benefits which are now being achieved."
The Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) issued a statement after Sunday's
race at the fastest circuit in Formula One calling for action but falling short
of a threatened future boycott.
"We believe that, as it is proven that Tarmac run-off areas are safer than
gravel, this should be adopted by all current Grand Prix circuits as a minimum,
and the kerbs should also be brought in line with the more modern track," the
drivers' statement said.
"In discussions with FIA representatives over the last few seasons the reason
given for not making the changes is one of finance which, given that more than
half of the circuit was recently re-surfaced, demonstrates that funds were
available."
The FIA said Monza was in fact the first race to use a high-speed barrier
developed by it to absorb the energy of a 200kph impact whilst keeping the
G-forces experienced by the driver to tolerable levels.
Top speeds at Monza are around 360kph with an average of 240kph a lap.
"The FIA were delighted with the installations at Monza and will be
discussing the feasibility of similar installations at other tracks with the
relevant circuit authorities," it said.
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