P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Pirelli expecting lighter and smaller F1 tyre brief for 2026
To enhance the connection between Formula 1 technology and road cars, the tire size has increased from 13-inch wheel rims to 18-inch rims for the introduction of ground effect in 2022. This change followed the introduction of wider cars in 2017, with a larger front tire and rear tire compared to the previous generation. However, the increased size has resulted in a new minimum car weight limit of 798kg, causing some drivers to complain about sluggishness and understeering. Pirelli, the exclusive tire supplier for F1 until 2027, is anticipating a design brief to return to smaller tires in 2026 to create lighter and more agile cars. Reducing tire size is one way to make the rubber lighter while maintaining performance and durability. Pirelli is also conducting analysis on the 2025 F1 tire construction to address driver complaints about degradation.
Forrás: motorsport
