F1 and FIA investigate feasibility after tyre experiment

F1 and FIA look to introduce new tyre format

In the experiment, F1 teams were allowed to bring only 11 sets of Pirelli tyres. Normally, each team has access to 13 sets. During qualifying, there was a rule for tyre use: In Q1, each driver had to drive on the hard tyre, in Q2 on the medium and in Q3 on the softest tyre. This was intended to improve durability in the sport.

Now that the first two experiments have been done, Pirelli boss Mario Isola believes there is enough data available to accurately estimate how useful the new tyre format is. Isola explains to Motorsport.com that the pros and cons will be juxtaposed, and a decision will be made based on whether the experiment will also change regulations.

Isola calls it more sustainable as well as more exciting

With less rubber being used, the new format is more sustainable but also more exciting, according to Isola. First of all, the Italian does not believe drivers are driving fewer laps during free practice. And after also looking at the total number of laps driven during the three free practice sessions last year and this year's laps, he sees almost no difference.

In addition, Isola also thinks the scarcity of tyres also forces drivers to push more and get more out of the tyres during qualifying. Indeed, according to Isola, drivers need to be more calculated to cope with rapidly changing grip levels. Isola is in favour of the alternative tyre allocation. However, the Italian does say that some fine-tuning may be needed. Isola concludes: "Hopefully, we are in the final stages of this decision. I believe Formula 1 and the FIA now have all the necessary data and information."