Even if the level of grip is predicted correctly, this is by no means a permanent solution to this problem. “The grip on a new track can change dramatically over the course of a race weekend,” explains Grant Tuff. “The results of a simulation for Friday are thus often worthless as early as Saturday.”

With this in mind, the team’s engineers try to avoid relying solely on their computer programmes. When a Formula 1 race is held on a new track for the first time, however, it generally has not been preceded by any other race. This means that there is no data whatsoever, such as from touring cars, that could be applied to the Formula 1 race cars. Co-operation from the track operator is therefore essential. Another helpful approach is the comparison with an existing circuit on which a Grand Prix race has already been held. This is done by examining the circuit and saying that the average cornering speeds should correspond to those of one known track and the top speed on the straight should be equivalent to that of another known track, for example. The engineers put together a reference course in this way, for which they then produce a basic set-up.

Before a driver takes the first practice lap on the new track, he has already memorized it. There is nothing unusual about this. He takes a look at the corners on a chart, notes whether they curve to the left or to the right, glances at the chicanes and straights, and by then usually has the course in his mind. This is enough information for experienced drivers to know where to drive in which gear and when to start braking ahead of a corner. Nevertheless, it is also important for them to examine a new track ahead of time on a bike or motorcycle, preferably with their race engineer.

Some prefer to explore the circuit on foot. This allows them to spot things that cannot be found on any sketch, such as slight irregularities in the asphalt or the condition of gravel traps, which could become essential should a driver find himself in one and have to look for a quick escape.

After this initial tour, Formula 1 drivers usually require two or three laps to internalize all distinctive points of a new track. Kerbs are a potential source of nasty surprises here. The best way to deal with them is to actually try them out. It is vitally important for a driver to gain knowledge about how to handle the kerbs on this particular circuit before he can go racing. A car sometimes lifts off completely when it merely brushes the kerbs but, amazingly enough, taking them head-on poses no problems. The true secrets of a new track reveal themselves only gradually.

“Many things,” says Grant Tuff, “cannot be discovered with even the best simulation. You just have to try them out.”

And did you know...

... that the Istanbul Racing Circuit, the venue of the Turkish Grand Prix, is the 69th track since 1950 to hold a Formula 1 race? The Turkish Grand Prix is the 745th race in the history of Formula 1, and Turkey is the 26th country to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix.