The Italian manufacturer is making a strong strategic choice for the resumption of the championship, with ultra-soft compounds expected on two key circuits.
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Pirelli has unveiled its tire strategy for the upcoming rounds of the season, and the tone is set: make way for the softest compounds in the range.
For the Miami and Canadian Grands Prix, teams will have the C3, C4, and C5 at their disposal, the softest options currently used in Formula 1. A choice that is far from insignificant, which could have a direct impact on strategy and the spectacle on track.
This return to the softest compounds marks a contrast with previous races, where more conservative choices had been favored after the opening in Australia.
Miami, a thermal challenge above all
The resumption of the championship will take place on the Miami track, a very specific circuit in terms of tire management. Pirelli emphasizes a key characteristic: the circuit’s very smooth asphalt.
“Degradation is mainly thermal due to the high temperatures in Florida” explains the manufacturer.
Under these conditions, the tires are subject to a significant rise in temperature, which can accelerate wear despite a low-abrasive surface. A parameter that will force teams to finely balance performance and management.
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Montreal confirms the trend
Two weeks later, the paddock will head to the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, where the tire choice will remain identical. This circuit, renowned for its heavy braking zones, requires good grip to handle brutal decelerations.
“The choice of the softest compounds is explained by a low-abrasive surface and the need for grip in heavy braking zones” details Pirelli.
A consistent approach, which aims to maximize performance while ensuring a sufficient level of grip in critical phases.
A strategy that could reshuffle the deck
By opting for these tires, Pirelli opens the door to varied and potentially unpredictable strategies.
Between thermal degradation in Miami and braking constraints in Montreal, teams will have to constantly adapt their plans. Differences in management could thus create significant gaps in the race.
After several weeks of interruption, this choice could well spice up the resumption of the championship… and offer much more open scenarios than during the first rounds.
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