Pirelli has confirmed that the ideal tyre strategy for today’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix should be a one-stop strategy, taking into consideration the track characteristics of Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
The Formula 1 Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia will take place later today, nine of the top ten drivers, including Scuderia Ferrari Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc to start on the medium tyres, after being able to make it through Q2 on the yellow-banded compound. McLaren’s Lando Norris will be the only one in top ten to start the race on Softs.
As always, the rest of the grid is free to choose any tyres for the race.
Formula 1 official tyre supplier Pirelli explained that a Medium/Hard strategy is preferable and that there is a wide pit stop window. A Soft/Hard strategy is also possible while a two-stop strategy is expected to be “distinctly slower”, using all three compounds in a Medium/Hard/Soft approach.
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“The Medium tyre was favoured by nearly everyone in Q2, with Lando Norris being the only driver to start on the Soft in the top 10. It’s going to be fascinating to see what he can do, surrounded by so many cars starting on Mediums. The two fastest strategies on paper are Medium to Hard or Soft to Hard, but the latter needs a bit more careful management. So we expect the majority of drivers to target a one-stopper but there are many unknown elements that could influence the strategy.” – said Pirelli chief Mario Isola, ahead of the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
