Japanese Grand Prix: F1 officials who hope that rain solves fire -fighting problems in Suzuka
After two fires interrupted the second practice of Friday, the key areas of grass were watered before the final tests on Saturday.
These were the driest areas and those of the fast corners, where there is the highest probability of sparks from the Titanium Skid plates under the cars, which are causing fires.
The same areas of grass have been watered again, with greater quantities of water, after two other fires interrupted the final practice.
A fifth fire broke out in qualifying at the exit of the 130r corner of 200 mph, causing a red flag in the second qualifying session.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who will start on pole for the race, said: “It will rain during the night and this will help. The grass is very dry and I imagine that with the sparks it can turn on.”
McLaren’s Oscar Plastri, who starts third, added: “With the rain during the night, I don’t think it will be a problem so much”.
