Grand Prix Drivers' Association Chairman Alex Wurz says "no research in the world" could convince him that the Miami International Autodrome would not have been made safer had organisers installed a Tecpro barrier at Turn 14. The corner was the scene of two big accidents during the Miami Grand Prix weekend, with Carlos Sainz and Esteban Ocon both sustaining minor injuries. Ocon's 51G shunt left him heading to the Medical Centre for checks, while Sainz complained of neck problems throughout the remainder of the weekend. Wurz has explained that the GPDA were involved in discussions with the FIA about the governing body's "refusal" to use a Tecpro barrier to protect cars from the concrete wall. But no barrier was installed, despite the GPDA having been told that one was available for use at the venue, according to Wurz.
Wurz: No research can tell me otherwise
"Strictly speaking, we didn't have an injury, so maybe you can say it (the barrier) is not necessary," said Wurz, speaking to Reuters . "We want to say that if we had it (the Tecpro barrier), it would improve the situation." As a result of his crash, Ocon was forced to start from the back of the grid; while he received the all-clear, his car's chassis had cracked. The crash cost Alpine time, resources and money – all of which Wurz says could have been avoided had a barrier been installed. "No research in the world can tell me it would have been a downside to put it [there]," he added.
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