F1 | Why tyre wear will be extreme in Qatar and how Pirelli plans to manage it

F1 | Why tyre wear will be extreme in Qatar and how Pirelli plans to manage it. Pirelli confirms maximum tyre stint lengths and brings the hardest compounds to the Qatar GP.

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF-25, garage, tire, front wing

F1 | In Qatar tyre wear will be extreme: the measures taken by Pirelli

Pirelli has officially announced the tyre compounds for the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, confirming that tyre degradation will be a critical factor at the Losail International Circuit. As we approach the penultimate round of the season, before the grand finale in Abu Dhabi, Formula 1 returns to Qatar where the Italian supplier has warned teams about several key challenges linked to this track. In addition to the high levels of tyre stress generated by the circuit layout, the hot conditions will also play a decisive role.

As previously communicated, the decision for this Grand Prix was to impose a maximum number of laps that each set of tyres can complete. After discussions with the FIA, Formula 1 and the teams, the final limit has been set at 25 laps per set. This regulation will oblige every team to complete at least two pit stops during the race.

The compound selection

For the Qatar GP, Pirelli has chosen to bring the hardest range of compounds available: the C1, C2 and C3. This same combination has only been used at Suzuka, Barcelona and Bahrain earlier in the season, all circuits known for placing extremely high stress on tyres.

The Losail circuit, originally designed for motorcycle racing, features a layout composed of several long, fast corners. This characteristic puts the front axle under significant stress, forcing it to remain heavily loaded throughout much of the lap, working mainly on the lateral plane. The asphalt provides strong grip, but the surface will not be perfectly clean in the early sessions of the weekend, meaning track evolution will play an important role.

Given the high temperatures, even though the race will take place at night, some graining is expected. The compounds used this season are more resistant to this issue, but the smooth surface of the asphalt will still contribute to the formation of graining.

Teams will therefore head into the weekend knowing that looking after the rubber – particularly the fronts – will be crucial if they want to avoid an unplanned third stop and stay competitive in the desert heat.