F1 Azerbaijan GP: Why Teams Might Shun Pirelli's Softest Tyre

Formula 1 teams might abandon Pirelli's softest C6 tyre at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, despite its inclusion as part of a softer compound selection for 2024. The C6, which has received mixed reviews in previous races due to its inconsistent performance and rapid degradation, is now facing additional scrutiny given Baku's unique track characteristics and a forecast of cooler temperatures and rain for the weekend. Teams are reportedly considering prioritizing the more reliable C5 (medium) compound for critical sessions, including qualifying, to mitigate risks and ensure more consistent performance.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's pursuit of a breakthrough engine could dramatically reshape the competitive landscape of F1. A powerful yet reliable power unit is crucial for a team aiming to challenge the established frontrunners and return to championship contention, a position they haven't held consistently since 2018.The decision regarding tire strategy in Baku is critical as it could significantly impact race outcomes and championship standings. With Pirelli introducing softer compounds to encourage multi-stop strategies, teams are navigating a delicate balance between outright pace and tire longevity. Choosing the right compound, especially under unpredictable weather conditions, could be the difference between a podium finish and a struggle to gain points, shaping the strategic narrative for the rest of the season.

The Details:

• Pirelli's Softer Compounds: For the Azerbaijan GP, Pirelli has brought compounds a step softer than last year, including the C6 – its softest F1 tyre. This aligns with Pirelli's season-long effort to encourage more dynamic multi-stop strategies rather than the default one-stop races.
• C6 Tyre Performance Issues: The C6 tyre has garnered mixed opinions in its previous outings (Imola, Monaco, Montreal). Drivers have reported difficulties in accessing its performance peak, with the peak often passing too quickly, leading to sharp drop-offs before the end of push laps. Several teams noted that the outer surface of the C6 moved excessively as temperatures spiked, providing peculiar and confidence-sapping feedback to drivers.
• Baku Circuit's Unique Challenges: The 6km Baku City Circuit presents a unique configuration. It features a corner-intensive first 3.8km followed by a 2.2km straight. This split character causes significant tyre temperature loss (around 40C) by the end of the long straight, bringing tyre temperatures close to their blanket-heated state (95C-110C) by Turn 1.
• Weather Forecast: Unfavorable weather is predicted for the Azerbaijan GP weekend, with Friday's ambient temperature expected to be around 22C (9C cooler than in 2024), and rain forecasted for Saturday and Sunday. Cooler temperatures exacerbate the risk of tyre-temperature loss and high-speed lock-ups, especially at Turn 1 – the most demanding braking zone on the F1 calendar.
• Strategic Shift to C5: Given the marginal lap time difference between the C5 (medium) and C6 (soft) – estimated at just two tenths of a second by Pirelli – and the known reliability issues of the C6, senior engineers are discussing prioritizing the more familiar and consistent C5 tyre for critical sessions.

What's next:

Teams will closely monitor free practice sessions for indicators of tyre strategy. If teams use an extra set of softs compared to their usual run plan, it will signal a likely intention to save C5 mediums for Saturday afternoon's qualifying. Some teams might even aim to save up to three sets of C5s. Mercedes, for example, is expected to follow this path, replicating George Russell's successful use of C5s for qualifying at Imola and Canada, where he secured pole position. Other teams, notably Aston Martin, are likely to adopt similar strategies. The true picture will emerge as practice sessions unfold, with increased soft tyre usage indicating a reduced reliance on the C6 for critical moments.