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SET-UP GUIDE - BELGIAN GRAND PRIX

22/08/2011

Spa Francorchamps Set-up guide

1. Engine
An engine with a strong top end is needed. This is especially the case for the drag up Raidillon and the Kemmel Straight which follows because it runs slightly uphill all the way to turn five. Good horsepower is rewarded in many sections of a lap, due particularly to its undulating nature.

2. Brakes
There are not many braking demands so, as a result, the focus is on keeping the brakes warm to ensure immediate efficiency when they are required. There are three major braking areas - into the first corner, into the turn 5 chicane, and then into the former bus stop chicane. These sections also offer the principal overtaking opportunities.

3. Suspension
This is primarily a high speed circuit and there isn’t much use of the kerbs, so the suspension is tailored to high-speed balance rather than low-speed travel.

4. Rear Wing
It’s very much an aerodynamic efficiency circuit where you need a reasonable amount of downforce without too much detrimental drag. A similar amount of rear wing to Canada is run, which constitutes a medium downforce setting.

5. Tyres
Pirelli are taking the soft and medium tyre which could spice things up a little, as it is a circuit that places many demands on the tyres. Also, the weather in the Ardennes can be very variable, even over the course of one lap.

6. Front Wing
In contrast to lower speed tracks, comparably more front wing is used which helps diminish understeer in the high speed corners.

Track annotations

• The start is uphill, meaning drivers must hold their cars on the brakes; making a smooth getaway is sometimes an issue.

• Tight first corner which is frequently the scene of first lap fracas, leading into the downhill section. Heavy braking down to 60 kph.

• Down Eau Rouge and into Raidillion with an extreme suspension compression as the relief changes from downhill to uphill. Good engine power required for the uphill drag.

• Flat out into the start of the Kemmel Straight or the long drag down to Les Combes.

• High speeds of 330 kph – one of the highest of the season – before braking down to 3rd gear and 140 kph for the right hander.

• Rivage provides a challenge as it’s a medium speed 180 degree corner, heading straight into turn 9; good balance and change of direction are required.

• Pouhon is a high speed left-hander, with entry at nearly 300 kph.

• Turn 14 is taken at 140 kph. Cars accelerate through Curve Paul Frere, which is taken 100 kph faster, leading into the flat-out turns 16 and 17.

• High speed section needs good car balance and strong aerodynamic efficiency, Speeds of around 300 kph achieved.

• Heavy braking into the chicane after a prolonged high speed section; brakes need to be ready instantly. Provides a good overtaking opportunity.

Credit: Lotus Renault GP (www.lotusrenaultgp.com)