Spanish Grand Prix To See Major Changes Ahead Of 2023 Season

The layout has been changed for the Spanish Grand Prix.

Ahead of this year's Spanish Grand Prix, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has made a significant change by removing the controversial final chicane. Originally added in 2007 to help with overtaking, the chicane has become the site of several 'traffic jams' in recent years, creating a safety concern for drivers.

The removal of the chicane required new TECPRO barriers at the final two corners, as demanded by the FIA. Stuart Robertson, Head of Circuit and Rally Safety at the FIA, and Niels Wittich, Formula 1 Race Director and Safety Delegate, were responsible for approving this modification during their inspection of the track in January. 

In addition to this change, they also approved a new, much wider run-off area at Turn 1, complete with a 70 metre gravel run-off and a new safety fence at Turns 1 and 2. These changes have significantly improved driver safety.

The removal of the chicane ensures that the Barcelona track can continue to host races while a second phase of work is carried out. This work involves the service roads surrounding the area and a part of the public area, and is scheduled to be finished by the end of March.

Aside from these safety changes, the track has also undergone some cosmetic updates. The iconic 'scoreboard' at the pit lane exit has been remodelled with the installation of a new, "more modern" signalling tower. Additionally, the kerbs have been replaced, tyres barriers renewed and painting carried out.

In terms of hospitality, the former Corporate Lounges have been given a new open-plan layout, while the permanent toilets in the fan areas have also been refurbished ahead of the 2023 season. With these changes, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is set to provide an even better experience for both drivers and fans alike.