Track changes in store at Sochi to boost overtaking

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The Sochi Autodrom, the venue of the Russian Grand Prix, will likely undergo a few changes in the future destined to increase overtaking opportunities around the twisty circuit.

The track's current layout, coupled with its ultra-smooth surface, hasn't been the best recipe for producing an action-packed event, with overtaking a challenging proposition for drivers.

In its bid to enhance the on-track action, Liberty Media is mulling changes, not only at Sochi but at other venues as well.

"If you look at circuits with very low degradation, like Sochi, the racing there is challenging and it is one stop," said F1 sporting boss Ross Brawn.

"The tyres don't go off, so away you go. There are no performance differentials created."

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Promoters of the Russian GP are working with F1 and the FIA on possible solutions to improve racing which would include widening several corners and a change of the track's asphalt.

"Fans know that because of the layout of the Sochi Autodrom, it is a bit short on overtaking," said Alexey Titov, the CEO of the Rosgonki company which bow runs the race.

"That is why we are working with [F1 race director] Charlie Whiting, the FIA and FOM very closely.

"We want to try to change the situation by making some small technical tweaks," he told Motorsport.com.

"You won't necessarily see these from the grandstands or on the television, but we hope these tweaks will improve the sporting side of the races and we will have more overtaking.

"Theoretically it could be anything from widening or narrowing some parts of the track, to changing the asphalt which will affect the tyres differently. This can force teams to use different tactics."

Titov doubted however the potential modifications would be implemented in time for this year's edition of the Russian GP, scheduled on September 30.

"I don't thinks it's for 2018," he added. "But we're exploring these ideas. We are thinking about improving the situation."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.