Inner Loop
Technically two chicanes, the bus-stop style sequence right before the surprisingly named Outer Loop at the former home of the United States Grand Prix was implemented to reduce speeds going into said Outer Loop (just The Loop before 1992). However, in modern downforce-heavy cars, this is still a rather speedy affair – especially since the second part of the chicane can usually be taken flat out before braking again for the Outer Loop.
As there is not much run-off to the inside, taking too much kerb or losing the car while entering the Inner Loop can end your race in a heartbeat. This makes getting it right all the more thrilling, however, especially with other vehicles around you.
Unfortunately, the Inner Loop has a tragic origin as well: While a different chicane was in place and cutting out part of The Loop, it had last been used in 1970 when NASCAR raced at Watkins Glen in 1991. Approaching The Loop, veteran racer J.D. McDuffie suffered a mechanical failure and crashed heavily, passing away from the accident subsequently. Not even two months prior, Tommy Kendall had severely broken both his legs after a crash in an IMSA race.
2: The Chase
4: Veedol-Schikane
5: Villeneuve
Full Article
As there is not much run-off to the inside, taking too much kerb or losing the car while entering the Inner Loop can end your race in a heartbeat. This makes getting it right all the more thrilling, however, especially with other vehicles around you.
Unfortunately, the Inner Loop has a tragic origin as well: While a different chicane was in place and cutting out part of The Loop, it had last been used in 1970 when NASCAR raced at Watkins Glen in 1991. Approaching The Loop, veteran racer J.D. McDuffie suffered a mechanical failure and crashed heavily, passing away from the accident subsequently. Not even two months prior, Tommy Kendall had severely broken both his legs after a crash in an IMSA race.
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1: Variante Ascari2: The Chase
4: Veedol-Schikane
5: Villeneuve
Full Article
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