New tyre markings in F1
Tuesday, 03 Apr 2007 09:02
The spotted tyres proved difficult to see for fans at the track
Formula One tyre manufacturer Bridgestone has confirmed that it will introduce special markings to help fans see the difference between compounds.
Under new 2007 rules, teams must use both hard and soft compound tyres in races but the white dots that were painted on during the Australian grand prix to help spectators tell the difference between the two proved difficult to spot.
The new system was given the go-ahead after teams conducted tests in Sepang last week and Kees van de Grint, Bridgestone's head of track engineering operations, said his company would institute the changes at the Malaysian grand prix this weekend.
"We have found a better solution by marking the bottom of the second from inside tyre groove white," explained Van de Grint.
"This has received a positive response from teams and onlookers at the test. It is time consuming to apply to the tyres but is clearly visible on track."
This weekend's race is the second of the 2007 season after Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen won the opening race of the season at Albert Park in Melbourne just over two weeks ago.
Reigning world champion Fernando Alonso finished second for McLaren with British F1 debutant Lewis Hamilton securing an impressive podium finish by taking third alongside his team-mate.