The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has decided to remove the final sector chicane for the 2023 Spanish Grand Prix.
The chicane was introduced for F1 events in 2007 but has proven to be unpopular with fans.
It emerged late last year that circuit bosses wanted to get the non-chicane layout homologated by the FIA so it would be a Grade 1 standard, which is needed for F1 cars to race on it.
The 2023 version of the track will see the cars take the right-hander of Turn 13 at a much higher speed, which will then loop around to bring the drivers onto the start/finish straight.
Through this change, lap times at the circuit will likely be several seconds faster, and it may provide better opportunities to overtake into Turn 1.
New TECPRO barriers have been installed at the last two turns to meet the safety standards set by the FIA, with delegates approving the modification during a usual track inspection.
Further changes to the circuit include a widening of the run-off area at Turn 1.
The first phase of works has been completed, with the installation of 80 metres of gravel as well as new fencing at Turns 1 and 2.
The second phase of works relates to the service rounds surrounding the area, which is scheduled to be finished by the end of March.
The updated length of the track is 4.657, a reduction of 18 metres from the previous layout.
The layout without the chicane has been used in MotoGP for several years, and now F1 has opted to adopt the change.
Spain currently has a contract to host an F1 race in Barcelona until at least 2026, with the 2023 event scheduled to take place on June 4.
Barcelona has long been a favourable host for F1 pre-season testing, including in 2022 when new generation cars were introduced.
Other minor features that have been injected into the updated circuit include the remodelling of the track scoreboard, located at the pit lane exit.
The track says that it will have a new signalling tower that “will continue to add character to one of the most iconic points of the facilities”.
Hospitality changes include a new layout for the Corporate Lounges on the first floor of the out building, while the toilets in the fan areas have been refurbished.
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