Supercars Race in Ruapuna: New Safety Rules and Rivalry Heats Up
Supercars officials have reportedly made changes to the safety car rules for this weekend’s event at Ruapuna Raceway. These adjustments are expected to play a significant role in the four races, especially given the ongoing tensions between Triple Eight and Walkinshaw.
Ruapuna Raceway in Christchurch is set to host Supercars races for the first time ever this weekend. This marks the fourth venue in New Zealand to hold such events. The race will feature three 120km races and one 200km race from Friday to Sunday, promising plenty of excitement and high-speed action.
The narrow pit-lane at Ruapuna has led to a slight adjustment in the safety car procedures. According to V8 Sleuth, the usual process will differ in Christchurch. Due to the limited space, cars will not be allowed to ‘double-stack’ in the pits, which could pose safety risks. As a result, any in-race incidents will trigger a two-lap full course yellow flag period before the Safety Car is deployed on track. This gives drivers a two-lap window to pit, ensuring that the second car of each team isn’t disadvantaged by pitting a lap later than the first.
However, Race Control retains the ability to deploy the Safety Car instantly in case of serious incidents, similar to what happened in Melbourne with Broc Feeney’s crash. The standard safety car procedure will return in the next round in Tasmania.
Triple Eight and Walkinshaw Set for More Fireworks
With the intensity of the opening rounds, the new safety car procedures are likely to come into effect multiple times. James Golding, speaking to Supercars.com, said: “It’ll be interesting to see how the racing goes in terms of passing, it’s pretty tight. There are passing opportunities, but there’ll be a few dive bombs getting pulled. So I think there’ll be a bit of carnage at some point.”
The rivalry between Triple Eight and Walkinshaw has reignited after their intense showdown in Taupo last weekend. Broc Feeney and Chaz Mostert clashed multiple times down the straight, showcasing the fierce competition between the teams. The tension stems from last year’s championship, where Mostert won on the back of his teammate Ryan Wood spinning him off track in the grand final.
Triple Eight manager Mark Dutton described Feeney’s actions in Taupo as “uncalled for” and “silly,” while Feeney responded: “Didn’t expect a big hit down the straight, but that’s alright. We’re all racing hard, he’s having a crack. I’m having a crack.”
Mostert hinted that all drivers are “keeping scores,” while Mark Winterbottom previously predicted that the rivalry would explode at some point this season.
Key Points to Watch
- The new safety car procedures are designed to ensure fair competition and driver safety at Ruapuna.
- The narrow pit-lane at the venue necessitated these rule changes.
- The rivalry between Triple Eight and Walkinshaw is expected to intensify throughout the season.
- Drivers like Broc Feeney and Chaz Mostert have already shown their competitive edge in previous races.
- The upcoming races in Christchurch could lead to dramatic moments and potential conflicts.
