Pirelli has justified its decision to introduce a 'super hard' compound into its range of 2018 tyres as insurance against next year's car development.
The Italian manufacturer, which has been Formula 1's exclusive supplier since 2011, introduced the superhard and hypersoft tyres at each end of its compound spectrum.
But F1 teams doubt the former will ever been seen in 2018.
"Quite simply, it's our insurance," Pirelli boss Mario Isola told Speed Week.
"Basically, we assume we will never use the super hard tyre. But it's still difficult for us to assess how quickly these new cars will be developed, and whether some corners could become critical."
"The hard tyre is enough on the circuits that put the tyres through a lot, but according to the regulations we may add another compound during the season. It's better to be safe than sorry," Isola added.
Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
The Formula 1 paddock thrives on whispers, and lately, few have been louder than those…
The fallout from Oliver Bearman’s terrifying high-speed crash at Suzuka is still rippling through the…
Formula 1 is quiet this month, but inside the halls of Red Bull Racing, the…
On this day in 1993, Ayrton Senna vanquished his rivals and the elements to win…
Momentum is building behind Doriane Pin, and now the 2025 F1 Academy champion is edging…
Jean Todt, the man who stood as the iron-willed guardian of Ferrari’s secrets for over…