The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix will feature a new and unique corner on the F1 circuit, La Monumental, which promises to be a standout element of the race. This corner stands out for its extreme design, with a 10-meter high, 550-meter long, 24% angle banking, making it the steepest corner allowed by the FIA. The corner's unique feature is its blind exit, which compresses the elevation and presents a wall of asphalt that drivers will rise over before the dash down to Turn 13, a sharp 90-degree left-hander. This rollercoaster-like experience will be unlike anything else on the F1 calendar, making La Monumental a completely different experience to Zandvoort.
The corner's design was a challenge for the track's chief operations officer, Carlos Jimenez, who stated that it will challenge drivers significantly. Williams driver Carlos Sainz described it as one of the most unique corners he has ever seen, praising the track's designers for their boldness. The Spanish Grand Prix's director general, Luis Garcia Abad, also emphasized that La Monumental is not a typical street circuit but a different, iconic element that the organizers wanted to include.
The corner's design was initially met with safety concerns, as the original idea of drivers plunging down the hill from the Turn 8/9 complex and straight into the banked corner would have resulted in too high entry speeds and sustained G-forces. However, the organizers agreed to add an extra sequence before La Monumental to slow things down, which could have positive consequences for the current generation of turbo hybrid cars. The new sequence will allow the cars to boost batteries for maximum deployment on the banking, making La Monumental a potential overtaking point.
La Monumental is expected to become the signature corner of the track, with packed grandstands lining it during the race. However, the track has more to offer than just this iconic corner. The sweeping section from Turn 13, fast chicanes on the approach, and several slower but technical corners will provide plenty of opportunity to gain and lose time. The track's unique setting and design will make it a memorable and exciting race for both drivers and fans, with La Monumental being the standout element that will leap to mind for the vast majority of spectators.
In conclusion, La Monumental is a bold and innovative design that will challenge drivers and provide an exciting experience for fans. Its unique features and potential for overtaking make it a standout element of the Spanish Grand Prix, and its inclusion will undoubtedly add to the track's iconic status.
