FIA bans DRS for straight tunnel of Monte Carlo
According to some recent reports, it has been revealed that the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) has banned the DRS (Drag Reduction System) for the long straight tunnel of the Monte Carlo circuit because it might be dangerous for the drivers
due to the degrading Pirelli tyres and uncontrollable speed.
The DRS zone of the track as a result is going to be the long straight at the start finish line, which is going to be the shortest DRS zone of the season, up until now. The DRS zone is just 300 meters long but the drivers can use this system anywhere on
the circuit during practice and qualifying.
However, the drivers will not be allowed to use this system in the tunnel for safety precautions and this is the first exception of the season up until now as the tunnel area of the track is actually a right bend, not a straight.
“We were made aware of drivers' concerns about using it and I've spoken to the drivers a few times about it, and it was quite clear the majority of them would prefer not to use it in Monaco”, FIA’s race director, Charlie Whiting, told the media.
As always, not everyone agrees with this rule, including Lotus Renault GP’s boss, Eric Boullier, who stated that this decision should be up to the drivers, as they can judge where they can safely activate the system.
Other than that, former McLaren driver, David Coulthard, believes that the FIA is right about this decision in this case.
“[The ban] seems like a sensible compromise. With the marbles that these tyres are producing, to venture off the racing line in that confined space could prove catastrophic. Better not to have the temptation”, he said.
Since Monaco is the tightest circuit of the 2011 Formula 1 calendar, Nico Rosberg believes that these new regulations will have a positive effect on the upcoming race and this year’s Monaco Grand Prix can be the most exciting Monaco Grand Prix in the history
of the sport.
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