Pirelli is set to conduct research into the development for 2025 of a new low degradation tyre for F1 that will enhance the show on the track but still allow for diverse pitstop strategies.
The FIA recently extended Pirelli’s exclusive supply deal with Formula 1 until 2027, with an option for an additional year.
The company has subsequently held discussions with Formula 1 on the criteria the company will need to consider for its future products.
In 2022, following F1’s transition from 13-inch to 18-inch wheels, and the introduction of ground-effect aerodynamics as part of the sport’s technical regulation shakeup, Pirelli introduced a new low-profile tyre.
However, since last season the durability of the Pirelli’s tyres has often been criticized by F1 drivers.
While an element of degradation is necessary to promote strategic diversity, drivers feel that Pirelli’s current product hinders their ability to maintain consistent performance over a stint.
Pirelli motorsport boss Mario Isola understands the drivers’ grievances regarding degradation, but warns that reducing the latter risks taking away a crucial element of differentiation between its compounds.
©Pirelli
"Without high degradation, there is no reason to target a two-stop race,” Isola explained.
"But also, I believe that most of the action on track is due to tyre degradation and how you are able to manage tyre degradation.
"If you reduce that, I am convinced that the risk is to have a train of cars because obviously, if you can push, I can push, everybody can push. It is not a different tyre for each driver.
"So, I understand drivers who are complaining about high tyre degradation because they would like to push more, and this is a clear indication."
Isola says that Pirelli will begin its research into the issue in the “next weeks”. The company’s engineers will also work with Formula 1 and the teams during its investigation.
"What we want to understand is how we modify the action on track and reduce the degradation. This is something we can do,” he said.
"We have to design a tyre with a different level of degradation and we can for the future consider that option. But it's important to understand if there is any unintended consequence to this.
"We need to understand what is good for the sport, taking into consideration the advice, the comments from the drivers but for the benefit of the sport."
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
