Changes in Barcelona given thumbs up

Following tests at the Circuit de Catalunya, F1 drivers have given changes to the track the thumbs up ahead of next weekend's Spanish Grand Prix.

Among the changes, which are designed to maximize overtaking opportunities, are a new chicane which aims to bunch cars together before unleashing them around the track's final corner and onto the long main straight.

Speaking about his home circuit, World Champion Fernando Alonso told Formula1.com: "Although I have always really enjoyed the final two corners and their speed, the new chicane at the end of the track will hopefully lead to more overtaking during the race, which is great for the spectators."

Tests also indicate that average lap times will increase by up to five seconds as a result of the changes.