Dutch GP DRS Zones
The Dutch GP is scheduled to take place from 25th August to 30th August at Circuit Zandvoort – let us take a look at the DRS zones at this venue
Formula One has introduced several alterations to different tracks on the F1 Calendar. Bahrain, Jeddah, Baku, and Miami have experienced modifications in their DRS zones. However, Zandvoort, set to hold the Ditch GP, will not undergo any adjustments. The Zandvoort circuit will maintain its previous layout with two DRS zones, and there have been no modifications to the track design in preparation for the upcoming race this weekend.
For the Dutch Grand Prix, the Zandvoort circuit design incorporates two DRS Zones. The initial zone features a detection point as drivers enter Turn 10, with activation ensuing after completing Turn 10. In the second zone, detection takes place after Turn 12, followed by activation after completing Turn 13.
DRS Zone 1
In the case of *DRS Zone 1* at Zandvoort, the detection point is positioned at the entrance of Turn 10, and activation occurs 50 meters after passing Turn 10. The rationale behind situating this DRS zone dates back to Turn 4. Since Turns 4, 5, and 6 are taken without lifting off the throttle, trailing closely behind another car’s slipstream can allow the pursuing driver to closely approach the leading car.
Following that, turns 7 and 8 are extremely high-speed corners that necessitate a substantial amount of downforce for proper execution. This creates a challenge for cars attempting to pass each other, as the turbulent air or “dirty air” in the slipstream diminishes the trailing car’s downforce through these corners. The subsequent opportunity for a faster driver to make a pass arises on the short straight following Turn 10. Spanning just 470 meters, this straight benefits from the assistance of DRS, providing the pursuing driver with an advantage. Despite the employment of DRS, overtaking during the braking into Turn 11 is limited due to the brevity of the straight.
The second DRS Zone at Zandvoort involves a detection point situated 20 meters after completing Turn 12, and activation follows 40 meters after concluding Turn 13. This second Drag Reduction System zone follows in quick succession after the first one. It provides an opportunity for those who were frequently caught in the pursuit into Turn 11 to regain an advantageous position. Notably, the activation point for this zone was adjusted for the 2022 Dutch Grand Prix. In the 2021 edition, DRS activation was possible 30 meters after completing Turn 14.
In the 2023 configuration, the activation point for the DRS is positioned between turns 13 and 14. This presents a unique occurrence where DRS can be engaged through a corner, specifically Turn 14. Notably, Turn 14 is a sharply banked corner, and the cars can comfortably navigate it while maintaining a flat-out trajectory, well within the limits of their grip. Even when the DRS is active during this corner, Formula 1 cars still generate more than sufficient downforce to manage a flat-out approach without the risk of spinning. The DRS zone extends down the start/finish straight, passing by the podium where the victor will celebrate with the Dutch Grand Prix trophy, and concludes at the braking point for Turn 1.
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