Delayed Start
There was a 30-minute delay to the start of the 2020 Spa 24 Hours after a horrifying three-car incident in the preceding Lamborghini Super Trofeo race. Mexican racer Raul Guzman was launched through the upper part of the barrier on the outside of the ‘heritage’ pit straight after a three-wide moment with Jonathan Cecetto Kevin Gilardoni.
Whilst Cecotto and Gilardoni escaped unhurt, Guzman has been initially diagnosed with a broken lower left leg and has been taken to hospital for tests and a scan on his back. (Update – Lamborghini report bruising and ‘some minor injuries’ – excellent news’)
The Mexican’s Huracan demolished a significant section of the safety barriers which required a full rebuild.
The incident unsurprisingly brought out the red flags bringing the 50 minute race to an end 15 minutes early
The ongoing repairs also meant that the grid for the 24 Hours formed up on the Formula 1 pit straight with the start taking place on the straight between La Source and Eau Rouge.
Track Limits Reintroduced
Rules regarding track limits for this year’s Total 24 Hours of Spa were redefined ahead of the race start after substantial criticism of the decision not to observe track limits (aside from at Raidillon) in the prior track sessions due to a shortage of track observers.
A bulletin from race director Alain Adam stated:
“The tolerance given to the track limits regulations, due to the COVID-19 situation, were abused exaggeratedly by most of the drivers.
“In these corners we are now facing safety issues because the drains are not made to resist.”
“The track is limited by two white lines. In turn 3 right hand side, exit turn 9, 17 and 19 the kerbs are included in the track. In all the other turns cars must remain in contact with the track.”
The bulletin further adds that penalties will be imposed upon competitors for breaking track limit rules during the race, running from warning flags through to drive-through penalties.
“The tolerance given to the track limits regulations, due to the COVID-19 situation, were abused exaggeratedly by most of the drivers.
“In these corners we are now facing safety issues because the drains are not made to resist.”
The number of observers and judges of fact has been increased from 9 to 20 for the race.
