FIA installs driver deterrent at Sochi's Turn 2

The tricky turn, which is the first major braking point on the lap, has been a particular problem over the years because drivers that do run wide can gain good momentum that helps them through the following Turn 3.

In a bid to deter drivers from opting to use the run-off area, the FIA has installed two orange blocks after Turn 2 that drivers will have to weave their way through before they can rejoin the circuit.

This should deliver enough of a handicap for drivers to ensure that there is nothing to be gained by running wide.

A revised note from F1 race director Charlie Whiting sent to teams on Saturday morning said: "Any driver who fails to negotiate Turn 2 by using the track, and who passes completely to the left of the orange kerb element on the apex, must then re-join the track by driving between the two new orange polystyrene blocks.

"Drivers are reminded that having left the track they must rejoin safely."

Qualifying etiquette

F1 drivers have also been told that they must not slow down through the blind Turn 12/13 in qualifying to help them find a suitable gap in traffic.

With the Sochi circuit expected to be quite busy and drivers likely to need multiple laps to get heat into their tyres, the prospect of hitting traffic is quite high.

But to prevent the risk of accidents at the corner where Carlos Sainz crashed heavily in 2015, F1 drivers have been urged not to ease off through there to let cars ahead of them get away.

"Any driver intending to create a gap in front of him in order to get a clear lap should not attempt do this around turns 12 or 13," added Whiting. "Any driver seen to have done this will be reported to the stewards."