P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 set for three-stop Qatar GP as stint limit imposed
Pirelli discovered micro cuts on the tyres after Friday’s practice sessions which they attributed to the aggressive kerbs at Turns 12-14 and the speed at which drivers were tackling them. To address the issue, the track limit was reduced by 80 centimetres for Saturday’s sessions to discourage excessive use of the kerbs. However, for Sunday’s race, a limit of 18 laps will be imposed due to ongoing concerns. The decision was made because the tyre data available from the Sprint Race was insufficient for analysis, as the frequent Safety Car interventions disrupted the data collection. Moreover, the tyres analyzed from the Sprint Race showed signs of separation between the compound and the carcass cords in the sidewall, likely caused by the high-frequency interaction with the kerbs. As a result, the FIA, Pirelli, and the teams have implemented various safety measures for the Qatar Grand Prix race. Teams were already expected to make multiple pit stops due to the high energy demands of the Lusail International Circuit, and drivers who used Soft tyres in the Sprint Race struggled in the closing laps despite multiple Safety Car interruptions.
Source: Motorsport Week