A week after the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Formula 1 returns to the Middle East, at Lusail, for the Qatar GP, the penultimate race of the season. With the drivers’ championship already clinched by Max Verstappen at the last GP, the Constructors’ Championship remains undecided, a battle between McLaren and Ferrari, although the papaya team could secure the coveted title in Qatar.
The Lusail circuit, characterized by its crown-like shape, is highly technical and features corners that are extremely demanding on tires. Although the race takes place at night, with more manageable temperatures, the GP is still highly strenuous for drivers. In the previous edition, many reported significant physical discomfort after the race, mainly due to the high temperatures.
As shown in the temperature graph, tires are subjected to substantial stress, especially laterally, comparable to Suzuka and Silverstone. The sequence of fast corners 12-13-14 is particularly critical. Despite a greater number of right-hand turns, tire stress is relatively balanced, with the front left being slightly more critical. For this weekend, Pirelli is compelled to use the hardest range of its set: C1-C2-C3 to cope with the high stress tires will endure.
The circuit’s asphalt is not particularly abrasive and does not offer high grip. Moreover, the desert’s proximity makes the presence of sand and dirt on the track highly likely, further reducing grip.
Expected tire wear on this track is very high, similar to levels observed at Suzuka and Silverstone. Despite the asphalt’s low abrasiveness, the high lateral stress accelerates tire wear, making perfect tire management crucial to maximize performance. While overtaking is not impossible, a strong qualifying session and pit stop strategies remain fundamental.
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