Whitmarsh admits F1 circuit design problems

Martin Whitmarsh has weighed into the debate about circuit design in formula one by agreeing that the sport has missed some new opportunities.

In 2011, it is hoped that adjustable rear wings, KERS and the extreme degradation of the new Pirelli tyres will contribute to improving the on-track ‘show’.

But Sir Jackie Stewart recently pointed his finger at the design of the sport’s newer tracks.

“Think of the airport tracks like Cleveland with the wide corners and more than one possible line and you can see how easy it can be,” McLaren and FOTA chief Whitmarsh reportedly told Motor Sport.

But Whitmarsh said it is not right to be critical of the organisers of – for example – the Abu Dhabi grand prix, whose spectacular Yas Marina venue hosted an uninspiring finale to the otherwise thrilling 2010 championship contest.

“On the other hand,” he acknowledged, “you could call it an opportunity missed if they have one of the longest straights in formula one and a chicane at the end of it with only one possible line.

“Brazil is a good example,” German reports quote him as saying.  “The facilities are not good but the races are fantastic.

“So when you start something new in the desert and with no apparent structural or financial limitations, it is a pity that we don’t go the easy route and copy some of the greatest corners in the world,” added Whitmarsh.

World champion Sebastian Vettel admits that he hopes the overtaking aids this year do not make passing in F1 commonplace.

“When you do overtake, it should be something valuable — a major achievement, like a goal in soccer,” he told Sport Bild.

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