P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Maximum stint length imposed for Qatar GP
Due to concerns over curb strikes during Friday practice, the Qatar Grand Prix will implement maximum stint lengths of 18 laps to preserve tire integrity. Damage was observed on tires caused by the severe edge of exit curbs at circuit corners and the high-speed nature of running on them. Although there were no failures, Pirelli noticed initial signs of tire wear after around 20 laps and adjusted the track limits accordingly. However, due to the interrupted nature of the Sprint race and insufficient data, Pirelli and the FIA have decided to enforce an 18-lap maximum tire stint for the main race. The tire life will be calculated based on the number of laps completed at high speeds, excluding cool-down, qualifying in and out laps, and Safety Car laps. Any car exceeding the tire life limit will be reported as unsafe. While teams will be required to make at least three stops if the race proceeds without interruptions, a three-stop race has not been explicitly mandated due to the possibility of reduced laps and lapped cars.
Source: Racer
