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Concerns Over Pirelli Tyres in Formula 1’s 2026 Regulations
Mercedes driver George Russell has expressed apprehensions regarding the potential decline in quality of Pirelli tyres as Formula 1 prepares for its significant rule changes scheduled for 2026.
The forthcoming regulations will introduce narrower tyres, with reductions of 25mm at the front and 30mm at the rear compared to the current specifications. This adjustment aims to decrease drag and enhance overall performance. Initially, the FIA proposed a transition from 18-inch tyres to 16-inch options; however, Pirelli raised objections based on practical considerations and their marketing strategy.
Russell participated in a tyre test in Jerez earlier this year and shared his mixed feelings about the new regulations. While he remains somewhat optimistic, he highlighted significant concerns about the performance of the proposed Pirelli tyres.
“The test was a bit of a challenge compared to the wider tyres we have today,” said Russell during the pre-season testing in Bahrain for 2025. “It was quite a step worse with the new tyres. That is naturally the case, because they’re just much more narrow. So hopefully they will be improved over the upcoming months.”
Testing Challenges with Mule Cars
Various teams, including McLaren and Ferrari, have been engaged in testing the 2026 tyres. However, much of the crucial data has been derived from simulation rather than on-track testing. This is primarily due to the absence of cars that accurately represent the upcoming regulations, necessitating the use of mule cars with simplified designs.
Though these mule vehicles exhibit downforce levels that approximate those expected in 2026, their differing characteristics make it challenging for Pirelli to accurately assess the performance and load-bearing capabilities of the new tyre models. Mario Isola, Pirelli’s motorsport chief, noted the reliance on these simulations in a conversation with Autosport earlier this year.
“The only thing we can do is to continuously ask for updated 2026 simulations from the teams,” Isola explained. “We must update our know-how and construction based on the data we receive. We cannot just rely on the mule cars because it won’t be sensible. We will continue to provide teams with a virtual model of the tyre for their simulators, and they can give us feedback. This is the right direction we should continue in.”
As the countdown to the 2026 season continues, the Formula 1 community remains attentive to how these changes in tyre design will influence race strategies and overall competition on the track.
Source
www.autosport.com