Zandvoort raises pit lane speed limit to 80 km/h, Carlos Sainz warns: “Safety is a concern”. Carlos Sainz analyzed the new 80 km/h pit lane speed limit at Zandvoort.

At Zandvoort the pit lane speed limit increases, Sainz: “Done to push towards 2 stops”. But safety concerns remain

Faster in the pit lane

One of the most notable changes attracting the attention of Formula 1 fans and teams ahead of this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix is the adjustment of the pit lane speed limit. Starting this year at Zandvoort, the maximum speed will rise from the 60 km/h used up to 2024 to 80 km/h in 2025. This is a significant difference that could strongly influence race strategy.

Speaking to journalists at the Dutch circuit, Carlos Sainz explained his view on the decision. The opinion of the Spanish Williams driver carries weight, not only as a competitor but also because he serves as one of the GPDA directors alongside George Russell. Given that Zandvoort’s pit lane is notoriously narrow, safety has been a recurring discussion point in past editions of the race.

Two-stop strategy, but what about safety?

“Is increasing the pit lane speed limit a danger to safety? I’m not sure yet, I need to think about it – Carlos Sainz commented during yesterday’s media day – tomorrow [today], when we drive, I will be able to tell the FIA if I consider it a bit too much or not.”

According to the Spaniard, the main aim behind the change is to encourage two-stop strategies, especially considering the unique characteristics of the Dutch track, where overtaking remains extremely difficult. “I imagine they are doing it to make the race more spectacular and to create the possibility of two pit stops – Carlos Sainz added – also considering that in Hungary there was again only one stop [with Norris winning the race] and overtaking was very tricky. It seems now that everyone is driving to make just one stop. So I guess they are trying to make things a bit more interesting.” – the former Ferrari driver concluded.