The FIA have made modifications to the Albert Park avenue circuit after security considerations forward of the season-opening subsequent month.
Each and sustained heavy crashes final yr at turns 6-7, which had been reprofiled and made quicker, with Russell as his rebounded off the barrier and again onto the racing line.
Consequently, ’s governing physique and native authorities have opted to maneuver the barrier on the left of the monitor, positioning it at a unique angle to minimise the danger of vehicles “rebounding” again on monitor.
The prevailing gravel entice has additionally been prolonged to the sting of the kerbs, whereas the kerbs themselves have been altered to take a seat decrease than the monitor floor, decreasing the danger of vehicles changing into unstable.
The monitor markings, beforehand yellow, have additionally been modified to white, consistent with most F1 circuits.
Russell stated after his crash, following a manoeuvre from Fernando Alonso, final yr: “The nook [itself] is wonderful, in all probability probably the greatest corners on that circuit, so I would not need to see that nook modified.
“However all circuits which have the limitations in sure positions, if it may propel you again onto the circuit, that is clearly not good.
“We do not need to have huge runoffs. Simply the place of that wall, even when it is nearer to the monitor however consistent with the circuit, at the least you would not bounce off onto the racing line.”
An FIA spokesperson stated of the modifications: “Following a evaluate of final yr’s occasion at Albert Park, a number of modifications to Flip 6 and Flip 7 have been accepted in collaboration with the native ASN and the grand prix organisers.
“The kerb on the exit of Flip 6 by means of entry and apex of Flip 7 has been changed with a single specification of unfavourable kerb.
“This adjustment removes the transition from unfavourable to constructive kerb that was current on this space, which beforehand had been addressed by native modification (grinding) of the kerb to offer a smoother transition between kerb varieties. The intent is to take away the potential of this transition destabilising a automobile.
“Moreover, the gravel entice now extends to the again of the kerb and the barrier on the left-hand aspect of Flip 7 has additionally been moved and re-profiled to mitigate the potential of a automobile coming to relaxation able close to the racing line following an impression with the power absorbing barrier on this space.
“These modifications have been proposed primarily based on suggestions from the FIA Security Division following their ongoing evaluation of all circuits, in addition to enter from drivers and groups. They goal to offer enchancment in security while sustaining nook dynamics and thrilling racing.”
The Australian Grand Prix is on 16 March, whereas a 10-team takes place at The O2 Area in London on Tuesday 18 February.
