Circuit races in details

When the automobile industry began to emerge in the world, the first motorsport appeared. Since then, a lot of various races have been held on the regular basis in different parts of the world. Circuit races are one of the most popular and exciting types of races ever known. What should you know about such competitions?

General information

The tracks are designed in such a way that the driver is provided with maximum traction on a perfectly flat road surface. In addition, the air should flow evenly around the body, because, for example, Formula 1 weighs about 550 kilograms, but its maximum speed is 340-360 kilometers per hour. Therefore, the driver’s control over the car should be as good as possible. Cars for circuit racing are usually divided into different classes. They are used in different categories of competitions. The most common circuit races in the world are Formula 1, GT1, GP2.

Competitions do not necessarily consist of one category of racing. Competitions usually have several classes. The goal of each driver is to arrive at the finish line first. The track is a ring with tight turns, undulating road and stops where the participant can refuel and change tires. Competition lasts on average 3 hours. Nevertheless, there are car races where drivers compete for 24 hours. Sometimes the race is stopped. The reason may be a car crash. In addition, when the cars collide with each other, they often catch the other participants. Therefore, the sport is dangerous.

Types of races

Competitions are held all over the world. Thus, there are many different types of them. Competitions use cars designed especially for them. Unlike conventional cars, they are quite low, and the wheels are located behind the body. The most common competitions in this category are:

• Formula 1. The races use unique and powerful vehicles. They are equipped with a 600 horsepower motor. The cars accelerate to 100 kilometers per hour in about 1.9 seconds. The maximum speed is about 350 km/h. This category is considered the “coolest”, because for every participate it is necessary to fulfill a lot of conditions. Almost every professional driver dreams of participating in Formula 1. The stages are called “Grand Prix”. The prize for winning the world championship is the Constructors Cup.
• Indy Racing League. Racing, similar to Formula 1. This type of competitions appeared in the United States. The length of the track is 500 meters. The main prize is 1 million dollars.These two competitions are the most common in the world. There are also National races and other interesting competitions.
• Body auto racing is another common type of competition is auto body racing. They are races on production cars. Some modifications are made to the cars, so the vehicles are better suited for racing: they change the suspension, wheels, install a more powerful engine, improve aerodynamics and brakes. Each individual competition regulates the permissible changes.
• The list of the most common races includes American NASCAR, where collision is a common thing. In addition, participants often fight after the end of the race.

Competitions

Like any other sport, circuit races have their own rules. Every racer must follow them to avoid being disqualified by the judges. Racing is a dangerous sport, and any violations can cause injury.

If qualification is not required, athletes without it start in the second turn. If training or qualifying needs to be stopped, a red flag is shown at the finish line and a yellow light is turned on at the traffic lights. The cars must slow down and drive to their seats. In addition, the Board of Athletic Commissioners may reduce the evaluation time to ten minutes.

Each lap during practice is used to determine the driver’s starting position. If qualifying is necessary, the SSC may allow drivers without qualifying for the following reasons:

• The allowed number of cars is not be exceeded;
• Athletes meet all requirements;
• Unqualified drivers are placed after qualified competitors.

If a driver drives on the track not during practice, they can be excluded from the competition.

A briefing is the event held the day before the start of the competition. It is conducted by the head of the competition. If a rider is in danger of being disqualified or fined, he/she must necessarily be present. The result of the briefing is distributed to the athletes in written form. A repeat event may also be held.

Beginning the race

If a driver fails to pass three rings in practice, they will not be allowed to start. Car line-up is published on the morning of the competition day. If the car is not able to go to the start, the driver must warn the manager. The grid is formed according to the results of qualifying. If two competitors have the same results, the advantage goes to the one who qualified first.

Cars stand in a staggered order. The minimum distance between vehicles is 6 meters. The exit to the site is closed five minutes before the start.

The start of the race is indicated by a red traffic light. At this point, there must be no people on the platform. 15 minutes before the start, it is necessary to pass the warm-up ring. After the signal “15” lap to get acquainted with the track. It is forbidden to stop during this lap. All work must be completed 5 minutes before the start.

If the athlete cannot drive the test lap, he/she must inform about it. The start of the race may be delayed. During the delay, an appropriate sign is shown.

Most often the cars start from the spot. This is done as follows. After the test lap, the cars drive back to the marked places. The engine may not be turned off. When everyone is on their grid cells, the judge gives the “10” signal. After 5 seconds, the red light comes on. When it goes out, the cars start moving. If a car stalls on the test ring, the driver must open the door to give the signal. It is also allowed to stick your hand out the window. In this case, the start is not postponed.

There is also a start on the run. All participants line up in two columns. Each car must be at a safe distance from each other. When the safety cars leave the track, the start is also shown by the red traffic lights. If someone overtakes or breaks the pace, it is considered a false start.

If it is necessary to stop the event, the leader shows a red flag at the start. In addition, a signal is given at all judge’s points. The decision to stop is made only by the leader or the person replacing the leader. In case of a red flag, all cars must slow down and drive to the flag line.

If the competitors have driven less than two laps, they all start again. If two or more full laps are driven, but less than ¾ of the race, the competition will consist of two heats. After stopping, the first part will be completed. It is not possible to change tires or refuel. If, however, competitors have traveled more than 75%, the contest is considered complete. The winner is the driver who first crossed the finish lane on the penultimate lap.

Safety car

The “safety car” sign must be on the back and side. In addition, there are two yellow flashing beacons on the roof and one green.

Fifteen minutes before the start, the safety car must stand in front of the starting grid until the “5” signal. When the signal appears, it must lap and stand in the pit lane. All flashing beacons are turned on at the start. While driving, the green light is on.

A safety car is used to stop the race at the decision of the leader. This occurs when a competitor is in danger or there are traffic problems. When all problems are corrected, the race continues.

Nowadays, circuit races are gaining more and more popularity. This sport is very dangerous and requires a lot of experience.