Dave,

I think at least one of the problems (with tire grip) is the air temperature--race conditions temps will be 18 degrees Celsius dropping to 16 degrees (or maybe lower with the expected wind chill.) The first full access to the track doesn't happen until tonight. So, we will see.

I really think the grumbling is strategic blathering at this point. The race organizers worked hard to minimize the effect on local businesses and also made money-making options more obvious for local firms.

Mark