Circuit bosses at the world-famous Nurburgring circuit have announced that speed limits on the track will be lifted next year following upgrade work.
Back in June, circuit officials announced that manufacturer hot lap times would be banned over safety fears arising from the death of a spectator on the Nordschleife track earlier this year.
A film crew who was due to help Swedish hypercar manufacturer Koenigsegg test its new One:1 model on the track said that the accident forced officials to enforce speed limits until the track was reviewed.
“Track management reacted by imposing a speed limit at Flugplatz, where the crash occurred. Since then, management has imposed further restrictions in other high-speed sectors,” the crew stated.
However, a safety board has already presented planned changes to the German motorsport association DMSB, along with other interested bodies include racing teams to “wide approval”.
The upgrades and repair work is due to commence from November this year as part of a bid to improve safety and also renew the circuit’s approval with the FIA.
Carsten Schumacher, managing director of Nurburgring operators CNG, said: “Safety on the Nordschleife during races, but also during test drives of the industry and during tourist ride sessions, is our highest priority.”
"Together with all those involved, we responded to the accident by carrying out a detailed analysis of the situation and compiling targeted measures to further increase active and passive safety, and especially the safety of spectators along the Nordschleife."
In total, 16 upgrades have been proposed, which include extra safety fences, resurfacing of 500 metres of track and a restricted zone on the notoriously tricky Schwedenkreuz section.
Despite the changes, bosses have promised that the track’s “unique character” will be preserved, and the changes will now be submitted to the FIA’s Circuit Commission for formal approval.