Pirelli expects Formula 1 teams to favour a one-stop strategy using the soft and medium tyre compounds at the 2026 United States Grand Prix, with the hard tyre unlikely to feature prominently in Sunday’s race. However, the main challenge at the Circuit of The Americas could come from the track’s bumps, which risk destabilising the cars and triggering brake lock-ups.
Speaking to Sky during practice in Austin, Pirelli’s Dario Marrafuschi explained that the circuit’s high grip levels and the relatively low degradation observed on the softer compounds have changed expectations for the race. Although two-stop strategies had initially been considered, the latest indications point towards a single pit stop as the preferred approach.
Pirelli expects soft and medium tyres to dominate Austin strategy
Dario Marrafuschi explained: “We are unlikely to see the hard compound in the race. The asphalt offers excellent grip and, given the low degradation recorded on the softer compounds this year, teams will favour the soft and medium tyres for a one-stop strategy, moving away from the two stops initially considered.”
The assessment represents an encouraging development for teams hoping to simplify their 2026 United States Grand Prix tyre strategy. Rather than needing to manage two tyre changes, teams could potentially complete the race using the two softer compounds, provided the degradation trends observed during practice continue.
The expected approach can also be considered alongside the tyre-compound and stint comparisons available through the ScuderiaFans F1 Tyre & Stint Analysis.
Austin track evolution points towards faster qualifying laps
Pirelli has also observed encouraging improvements in track conditions as the United States Grand Prix weekend progresses. According to Dario Marrafuschi, the circuit is evolving normally, with grip already noticeably better than during the previous day.
“Track evolution is proceeding normally: grip has already improved significantly compared with yesterday and is showing good consistency. Lap times are dropping quickly, and for qualifying we expect a time around 1:33.9,” the Pirelli representative explained.
The expected qualifying benchmark reflects the improving grip available to drivers as the circuit develops. However, while the surface is providing increasingly favourable conditions, another characteristic of the Texas venue remains a significant concern.
Why Austin’s bumps could trigger braking problems
According to Pirelli, dirt on the circuit is not expected to become a major problem. Instead, the bumps and surface depressions at the Circuit of The Americas could have a substantial influence on car setup and braking stability.
“Dirt on the track will not be a disturbing factor, unlike the bumps. The surface depressions will have a major impact on car setup, making it easy for the tyres to lock up under braking,” Dario Marrafuschi warned.
The issue is particularly relevant because of the aerodynamic characteristics of the 2026 Formula 1 cars. With less downforce and an aerodynamic balance favouring the rear, the cars can be more susceptible to the braking behaviour described by Pirelli.
“Drivers will need to pay maximum attention, also because these cars, with their lower downforce and rear-biased aerodynamic balance, naturally tend to accentuate this phenomenon,” Dario Marrafuschi added.
The challenge will therefore extend beyond tyre selection. Teams must find a setup capable of dealing with the circuit’s surface irregularities while maintaining sufficient braking stability, making the bumps a potentially decisive factor during qualifying and the Grand Prix.
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