F1: FIA to ban titanium to prevent trackside fires

Titanium under surveillance. The FIA has officially informed Formula 1 teams of a new rule: if grass fires related to car sparks occur again, it reserves the right to require the switch from titanium skid blocks to stainless steel blocks.

This decision follows the fires that disrupted the free practice sessions of the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix and the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix. The governing body conducted tests of alternative materials during the Spanish Grand Prix last weekend, confirming that titanium, although preferred for its durability and lightness, is indeed the cause of these outbreaks of fire.

A preventive measure… for now

A spokesperson for the FIA stated: « Titanium skid blocks will remain mandatory until the end of the season. However, teams must have stainless steel blocks available at every race, as their use could become mandatory if similar fires occur, like the one at Suzuka this year. »

In parallel, additional tests with steel will be conducted during selected events to allow for further evaluation.

Local solutions, limited results

Measures had already been taken to limit the risks: grass cut shorter, wet areas around the concerned turns… But their effectiveness has remained marginal. To date, no Grand Prix has yet been interrupted due to a fire, thus avoiding a certain embarrassment for the discipline.

According to the FIA, these incidents mainly occur during practice sessions when the cars run with empty tanks to achieve fast lap times. During the Grand Prix, cars carry up to 100 kg of fuel, and drivers manage their pace more, especially in the fastest corners.

Nouveau départ de feu 😱🔥

Après l’incendie dans le virage 7 ce matin lors de la FP1, un nouvel incendie s’est déclaré dans le virage 5 en fin de SQ1 🥵#ChineseGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/4qASFxrdoR

— CANAL+ F1® (@CanalplusF1) April 19, 2024