Several Formula 1 drivers have requested changes to Turn 6 at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne following the recent incident involving Fernando Alonso and George Russell. Alonso was penalized for his driving tactics, which caught Russell by surprise and resulted in the Mercedes driver going off track and hitting the barriers. Russell’s crash happened at the same corner where Alex Albon damaged his Williams FW46 chassis during practice. In last year’s Australian Grand Prix, Albon also crashed at the same corner, and Dennis Hauger had an incident in the 2024 Formula 2 feature race. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri expressed concerns about cars being launched back onto the track after accidents, suggesting that the angle of the wall or the speed of the corner should be addressed. The matter was discussed with the FIA, and measures are expected to be taken to prevent further incidents.
Russell’s Mercedes came to a stop sideways in the middle of the track after his crash before a Virtual Safety Car interrupted the race. However, he admitted that Turn 6 at Albert Park is “possibly one of the best corners on this circuit.”
“So, I wouldn’t like to see that corner changed.”
“I believe everything is correct. Just the position of that wall, even though it’s closer to the track, but aligned with the circuit, at least you wouldn’t come back onto the racing line.”
Albon, another victim of Turn 6 during the Australian Grand Prix weekend, added that the kerbs at Turn 6 also contribute to the dangers of that specific corner.
“With these low cars now, anything we touch, we can use the first part of the kerb, but if you go too far and hit the second ramp, the car gets launched into the air,” he stated.
Daniel Ricciardo, just like Russell, only has praise for Turn 6 and hopes that, if there are changes, it will not be in the format of the corner, but rather in how the wall interacts with the cars.
“I love that corner,” commented the Australian.
“It’s a really, really enjoyable corner. In qualifying, you downshift to sixth gear and almost accelerate again. So, it’s a bold corner.
“The only thing I don’t like about it is, as we’ve seen, if you crash, you come back onto the track.
“I don’t like that situation, but in terms of pure driving experience, it’s an incredible corner. So, I don’t want it to be changed. However, the safety aspect is bad.
“Unfortunately, this is the kind of corner that is highly susceptible to a major incident, so if they have to change it and that’s the only way to ensure safety, then yes, they should.
“But if they can make it safer while maintaining its speed and everything else, then that’s my preference.”
Changes may be on the horizon, as discussions are taking place to remodel the corner, introduce an asphalt runoff area, and modify the wall on the exit, according to Motorsport.com.
This will be good news for the winner of the Australian Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz, who stated: “That corner needs to be reassessed, something I already mentioned in the last drivers’ meeting.
“I just don’t like the recent incidents we’ve witnessed in that corner, as well as in other categories. It doesn’t give me a good feeling.
“It’s a fantastic corner, don’t get me wrong. I love driving it during a qualifying lap. It’s just that, when it comes to the race, there have been many instances of a car coming back onto the track and creating a very narrow situation.”
After modifications before the 2022 Australian Grand Prix, which opened Turn 6 to increase speeds and encourage overtaking on the subsequent straight, it seems that changes may once again be on the way just two years later to address the situation.
© 2024
The world of sports is always evolving, and 2024 promises to be an exciting year for fans. With several competitions and events scheduled, sports enthusiasts will have plenty to follow. Let’s take a look at what’s to come.
In football, the World Cup will be the highlight. The best teams in the world will face off in an epic battle for the title. It will be a fierce competition, with talented players and thrilling matches. Football fans won’t want to miss it!
In addition, we will have the Summer Olympics, which always bring unforgettable moments. Athletes from different disciplines will compete for gold, representing their countries. It’s an event that unites nations and celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship.
In basketball, the NBA will continue to be in the spotlight. With incredible players and competitive teams, fans can expect intense games and spectacular baskets. The rivalries between teams promise to heat up even more, providing exciting moments for spectators.
In tennis, the Grand Slams will be must-see events. With renowned players and high-level matches, fans will have the opportunity to witness the greatness of the sport. The courts will be the stage for exciting and historic duels.
In addition to these events, many other competitions and tournaments are scheduled for 2024. It’s a year full of promises for sports lovers. Get ready to be thrilled and cheer for your favorite athletes. Sports never stop, and 2024 will be another incredible year for fans.
