Pirelli's Softer Tyres Challenge F1 Teams' Azerbaijan GP Strategy

Pirelli's Softer Tyres Challenge F1 Teams' Azerbaijan GP Strategy

Pirelli's selection of its softest tire compounds for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix could push Formula 1 teams towards a two-stop strategy, introducing an element of unpredictability on the Baku street circuit.

Why it matters:

The tire choice aims to disrupt the often-predictable one-stop races seen on street circuits, potentially leading to more varied and exciting strategic battles.

The details:

• Pirelli is bringing its softest range to Baku: the C4, C5, and C6 compounds.
• This marks the fourth time the C6 compound has been used this year, following Imola, Monaco, and Montreal.
• The manufacturer stated that retaining the 2024 tire allocation (which was a step softer, and would have resulted in a one-stop strategy) would have led to a highly predictable race.
• By going even softer with this year's C4, C5, C6 selection, and noting that "this year’s range suffers much less from graining," Pirelli hopes to "open up the possibility of a two-stop strategy."
• Despite this, Pirelli acknowledges that teams and drivers have become highly efficient at managing tire degradation, as recently demonstrated at Monza. This means a one-stop strategy remains a viable option for many.
• Baku's unique characteristics — a street circuit with low grip and wear but extremely long straights where cars reach high top speeds — place significant vertical loads on the tires.

The big picture:

Teams will face a crucial balancing act between outright pace and tire preservation, with early practice sessions critical for understanding degradation rates and formulating optimal race plans. The race could still see varied approaches despite the efforts to promote more stops.