Follow usFormula One cars will continue to run with titanium skid blocks for the remainder of the season, despite recent concerns about grass fires caused by sparks.
The sport’s governing body, the FIA, confirmed the decision after evaluating stainless steel alternatives aimed at reducing fire risks.
🚨| The new headache steel skid block move will give F1 teams:
— Formula 1 teams may soon face a new technical challenge with the FIA testing steel skid blocks during Spanish GP practice sessions. Heavier than titanium and prone to faster wear, these components could force teams… pic.twitter.com/Np0yDfz9k5
— This is Formula 1 (@ThisIsFormu1a1) May 30, 2025
The issue gained attention after second practice at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka was halted four times—twice due to small grass fires sparked by the cars. A similar incident occurred during practice at the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.
Titanium skid blocks, located beneath the cars, produce sparks when they make contact with the track surface or kerbs. While the FIA has decided to keep titanium as the standard material for now, teams will be required to carry stainless steel skid blocks as well. These may become mandatory at future races if more grass fires are reported.
Formula One cars will continue to use titanium skid blocks for the rest of the season after testing stainless steel alternatives to reduce the risk of trackside grass fires. https://t.co/LDeQrYzK5k
— Times LIVE (@TimesLIVE) June 4, 2025
The announcement follows tests with stainless steel blocks during the recent Spanish Grand Prix. The FIA says it will continue evaluating the alternative material at selected races as the season progresses.
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