FIA Introduces Rule Allowing Skid Block Change Amid Grass Fire Concerns

Formula 1's governing body, the FIA, has moved to address the recent issue of trackside grass fires caused by sparks from cars, introducing a new rule that could see teams mandated to switch materials for their car's skid blocks. The titanium skid blocks, which scrape against the track surface and are designed to limit plank wear, have been identified as the source of sparks responsible for igniting grass alongside the circuit. This led to repeated disruptions during practice sessions earlier this season at the Japanese and Chinese Grands Prix, requiring sessions to be stopped or delayed while fires were extinguished. In response, the FIA conducted tests of alternative skid block materials during the recent Spanish Grand Prix. While titanium remains the standard material for now, the governing body has informed teams of a new regulatory power it reserves. Under the new directive, teams are permitted to continue using titanium skid blocks for the remainder of the 2024 season. However, they are now required to have stainless steel skid blocks available at all events. The crucial part of the rule states that if further grass fire incidents similar to those seen in Suzuka or Shanghai occur, the FIA has the authority to immediately make the use of stainless steel skid blocks mandatory for all competitors. The choice of titanium for skid blocks historically stems from its advantages in durability and lighter weight compared to steel. However, the propensity for titanium sparks to ignite dry grass has prompted this potential change. The FIA spokesperson confirmed that while titanium remains the mandated material currently, teams must be prepared to switch. They also indicated that additional testing of stainless steel skid blocks will be conducted at selected events over the season to support ongoing evaluation of their performance and suitability as a mandatory alternative. Previous attempts by circuits to mitigate the fire risk, such as cutting grass shorter or dampening trackside areas, had limited success in preventing the sparks from causing ignition. Although the grass fires have caused disruptions during practice, they have notably not led to race stoppages. This difference is believed to be linked to how teams configure their cars. During practice, cars often run with minimum fuel loads to achieve fast lap times, resulting in the cars riding lower and potentially creating more sparks. In contrast, during a Grand Prix, cars start with significantly heavier fuel loads (up to 100kg), and drivers often manage their speed through high-speed corners to conserve tyres, leading to less aggressive contact between the skid blocks and the track surface. The new rule serves as a proactive measure by the FIA to prevent further disruptive and potentially dangerous fire incidents, ensuring they have the means to enforce a material change if the problem persists.