After a long wait, Formula 1 will be able to start its season next week in Austria. Nevertheless, we must expect a paddock turned upside down for this recovery following the coronavirus crisis. In addition to the conduct of the test behind closed doors, the draconian application of a health protocol and the generalization of physical distance, the change will also be visual. Team motorhomes will have no place in Red Bull Ring, where tents and awnings will be used while trucks will be moved away.
This measure makes it possible to limit the number of people present on site, the installation of motorhomes requiring heavy logistics and mobilizing significant human resources. It also offers a more substantial workspace, in line with the instructions to be respected to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
“It will not be the same organization as on a usual European Grand Prix, because we will not have motorhomes”, confirms Karl Fanson, logistics manager within the stable Mercedes. “In accordance with F1, we will move the trucks away from the garages and we will bring our own tents and awnings. This will give us more workspace at the garage level. It is easier for social distancing and for working comfortably . “
The stables will also have to get used to new procedures in terms of interactions with their external suppliers, again to minimize the risk of virus transmission. Deliveries from a team’s factory will be outside the paddock, while the provision of tires and fuel will also be redesigned.
“Usually the fuel is delivered to the garage and we send people to pick up the Pirelli tires”, says Karl Fanson. “From now on, there will be a drop-off point and a fuel collection point, while the tires will also be collected from a drop-off point. Our guys will go to the collection point to pick up the tires, then vice versa. Once we’re done with the tires, we’ll bring them back and Pirelli will pick them up once the area is cleared. ”
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