People are just realising why F1 French GP track has red and blue squiggly lines
Many Formula 1 fans have been left asking the same question during the French Grand Prix weekend – why are there so many red and blue squiggly lines surrounding the track?
The obvious answer to many is that they match the colours of the French flag, but the lines are not merely for show. The main reason for their presence is safety.
While most circuits around the world rely on large run-off areas or gravel traps to slow the cars down in the event of a spin or crash, the Paul Ricard track uses painted special lines to cut speeds if needed. The blue lines, which are closest to the track, are abrasive and will slow the cars down a little while red lines are particularly rough and sliding over them could destroy the tyres.
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Overall, there are 167 stripes surrounding the circuit, which have been described as an eyesore by some fans. The circuit could be hosting its last F1 Grand Prix for some time as it is widely expected to lose the race after this year, with a number of new circuits, including a street race in Las Vegas, set to join the calendar for 2023.
Given the country’s rich history in the sport, it would not necessarily mean the end of the French Grand Prix though. A street race in Nice and Le Mans have been touted as potential venues for a grand prix in France.
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Meanwhile Charles Leclerc, from nearby Monaco, has taken pole position for Sunday’s race, after finishing 0.3seconds clear of championship leader Max Verstappen, with the other Red Bull of Sergio Perez in third.
The other Ferrari of Carlos Sainz will start from the back of the grid after changing a host of engine components, allowing Lewis Hamilton to take fourth, albeit 0.9seconds off Leclerc. McLaren’s Lando Norris managed to split the Mercedes by qualifying fifth ahead of George Russell.
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