Le Mans makes centenary changes
Changes are being made to the famous Le Mans circuit as it celebrates the 100th anniversary of its hosting the French Grand Prix.
Following a request by the FIM, the Dunlop chicane has been extensively modified to provide greater run-off areas. While the fundamental layout of the track has not altered, it turns in earlier to allow for a straighter breaking area. The chicane section is slightly longer and tighter as a result.
Work is already advanced on the track re-construction, having begun in November, and will be completed in late February.
Elsewhere, work is also continuing apace on a new paddock area and spectator 'village'. This will see a complete overhaul for the public areas behind the pits, which will also be connected to Le Mans town centre by a new tramway. An access tunnel has already been constructed under the Hunaudiéres straight.
Additional work to create extra pit garages is also under way. When complete, the new garages will allow space for 55 teams to compete in the world-famous 24-hours.
Circuit owners the Automobile Club de l'Ouest have delayed modifications to create extra run-off at Tertre Rouge until 2007 for budgetary reasons. The corner will be opened out with an earlier turn in to create space for a wider gravel trap. The corner is exected to be slightly faster as a result.
Work on this section should start after the third edition of the "Le Mans Classic" in mid-July.
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