‘GROSJEAN GLOVES’ DEVELOPMENT PROGRESSES

Motorsport Australia will continue to follow the progress of prototype ‘Grosjean gloves’, after a successful test at the Formula 1 Turkish Grand Prix.

Five drivers were permitted to use prototype FIA gloves that aim for better heat transmission protection during practice at Istanbul Park, developed after Romain Grosjean suffered serious burns in a crash last year.

When asked if the new technology would be implemented into Australian motorsport, Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith said that the governing body was monitoring all safety developments.

“We’re always monitoring the latest motorsport developments in safety equipment, trends and regulations across the globe to make our sport the safest it can be,” Smith told Auto Action.

“Motorsport Australia and the FIA work closely on many safety initiatives and we will certainly be interested in any new innovations and the testing of any new apparel.

“At this time, there are no plans to change the race apparel regulations.”

Grosjean escaped from his burning car during last year’s Bahrain Grand Prix, when the Haas machine burst into flames after a high-speed impact with a safety barrier.

The Frenchman sustained significant burns to both hands and since then the FIA has taken up research into more effective heat-resistant gloves.

Daniel Ricciardo testing the new gloves at the Turkish Grand Prix – Image: Motorsport Images

Daniel Ricciardo, George Russell, Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz and Sebastian Vettel were the drivers who tested prototype gloves in Turkey, trialing Sparco, OMP, Puma and Alpinestars products respectively.

“I used them, and I knew that I was going to use them but after, the fact that I didn’t know I had used them…what I’m trying to say is that is a good thing,” Ricciardo said.

“I didn’t notice the difference. I’m also not very fussy with my kit and stuff, so I’m not that particular.

“It’s a nice addition without any downside really.”

FIA regulations now allow non-homologated equipment to be used for research purposes.

An FIA statement explained the purpose and aims of glove developments.

“The prototype gloves are designed to deliver increased heat transmission protection in relation to the currently homologated gloves,” the FIA explained

“This corresponds to an increase in the time which the glove can be exposed to direct heat from flames before which temperature on the skin reaches a level of significant concern.

“The specific changes in glove specification required to achieve this increased protection must be balanced with the levels of comfort and dexterity required to operate the car safely and for extended periods.

“It is considered that any effects of the specification changes on comfort or dexterity can only be evaluated effectively during track testing.”

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