F1 Canadian GP: Pirelli investigates soft tyre issues and outlines strategy scenarios. Pirelli analyses unusual tyre performance in Canada as the Soft struggles.

Pirelli analyses the anomaly of the fastest time being set on the Medium compound and explains possible strategies for the Canadian GP.

The first day of the Canadian GP provided some interesting technical insights, both in terms of on-track performance and the strategic use of Pirelli’s soft and medium compound tyres. The standout element was the new C6 compound, brought to a race weekend for the third time this season. Commenting on its behaviour was Simone Berra, Pirelli’s Chief Engineer, who noted that while similar to the C5 in terms of outright performance, the C6 nonetheless proved to be quicker.

The best time of the day was set by George Russell on the Medium tyre, but Simone Berra urged caution: “The time is not significant in itself, as track conditions improved greatly in the afternoon.” George Russell followed an unusual run plan, using the Softs first and then switching to the Mediums, benefitting from a more rubbered-in track surface.

Tyre anomalies in Canada: Pirelli’s analysis
Weather conditions were also a key talking point: “On Sunday, higher temperatures are expected, and the track could be ten degrees hotter than today.” This is a variable not to be overlooked, especially when it comes to degradation and compound choice.

Teams adopted various approaches: some opted for two sets of Mediums and two of Softs, others already tested the Hards, with most choosing one set of C5s and three of C6s. Graining levels were high, but Berra is hopeful for improvement: “It’s hard to say whether the phenomenon will disappear in the race, but the Hard compound performed well.”

Strategy is beginning to take shape: nine out of ten teams saved two sets of Hards, a clear indication that this will be the key compound. The Soft appears to be ruled out for race use. And in qualifying? “It will be interesting to see how the new Medium and Soft sets are managed, considering there is still one free practice session tomorrow.”

To conclude, Simone Berra outlined the most likely strategic scenario: “At the moment, a two-stop race seems the fastest option, and there’s no indication this will change.” All eyes now turn to Saturday to see how teams will respond in a still-evolving weekend.