Pirelli Banks on 2017 Data for Bahrain GP at Sepang

Pirelli will base its tire compound selection on 2017 data for Formula 1's Bahrain Grand Prix, relocated to Malaysia's Sepang circuit due to the Iran war. With F1 absent from Kuala Lumpur since 2017, the Italian manufacturer is relying on historical data to choose the optimal rubber for the revised 2026 calendar.

Why it matters:

The relocation highlights the logistical strain on F1 suppliers when geopolitical instability forces sudden calendar changes. Pirelli's ability to adapt quickly while maintaining strategic variance and durability will be critical at a venue the sport hasn't visited in nearly a decade.

The details:

• Pirelli Motorsport director Dario Marrafuschi said the company will select compounds in line with its 2017 choices — medium, soft, and supersoft — equivalent to today's C2, C3, and C4.
• The decision reflects the similarity between 2017 tire dimensions and modern specifications, making that season's data more relevant than earlier years.
• Compressed timelines prevent Pirelli from sending personnel to Malaysia for additional track analysis, forcing the company to rely entirely on existing data.
• Tires will be air-freighted rather than sent by sea to meet the accelerated production schedule.
• Pirelli requires seven weeks' notice for European events and maintains flexible production scenarios to accommodate further calendar volatility.
• The manufacturer also addressed speculation about a potential Imola finale, noting that cold December temperatures would be manageable and comparable to Barcelona pre-season testing.

What's next:

With the 2026 season remaining fluid, Pirelli's emphasis on flexible production will likely be tested again. The Sepang event serves as an early indicator of how F1's supply chain adapts when conventional planning gives way to rapid improvisation.