“In the lap times we’ve seen so far, GT cars took out 1.7sec,” he says. “The fact is that even though we didn’t change the layout, the quality of the resurfacing job that was implemented by the local contractors – with our guidance – has seen a huge improvement.”
Lewis Hamilton last year complained that recent resurfacing had “ruined” Eau Rouge, commenting that a bump at the compression point in the point of corner made it particularly unenjoyable.
Zaffelli and his team 3D-mapped the circuit, identifying the worst parts of the track that were in need of resurfacing, creating a smoother asphalt and therefore safer yet more fluent racing experience.
“Now Eau Rouge is really flowing,” he says. “It’s not anymore something that is upsetting your vehicle. The goal is to challenge the driver without putting them at unnecessary risk. It’s in its best version in the modern era.
“The bumpiness is very much reduced round other parts of the track too, and it’s all offering increased grip levels.
Zaffelli gives another example of where significant change will be noticed by drivers.
WEC has already held a round on the revamped circuit
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“When you go through Speakers corner [now Jacky Ickx], it sets you up for a faster entry into Pouhon.
“I got much feedback from drivers, saying, ‘Jarno, you changed the corner.’ I said, ‘I swear, the layout is exactly the same!’
“Before they were going in with a late apex, but now they’re going for an early one – but they were not able to understand why they were changing the line.
“Before there were two bumps because of a collapsed pipe – we have removed these. Now they can carry more speed.
“That’s why we think that Formula 1 lap-time will not be that different to the previous years. The cars are slower [by 1-2sec depending on conditions and the circuit], but will be counterbalanced by the quicker track. I think it’s something the drivers will enjoy.”