F1 Tyres Explained 2023

Since 2011, Pirelli has been the sole supplier of tyres for the Formula 1 teams.

They returned to the sport after being involved previously in the 1950s, 1980s, and 1990s.

Pirelli's History in Formula 1

Pirelli has a long history of involvement with Formula 1. They were first used at the birth of the World Championship.

Initially, there were multiple tyre manufacturers competing against each other, however today Pirelli is the sole and exclusive supplier - with the current agreement in place until the end of the 2024 season.

Previous Formula 1 Tyres

Despite Pirelli being the currently exclusive supplier of tyres to F1, there have been several tyre brands involved over the years. These include:

• Avon tyres from 1954 to 1982.
• Dunlop tyres from 1950 to 1977.
• Firestone tyres from 1950 to 1974.
• Goodyear tyres from 1965 to 1998.
• Michelin tyres from 1977 to 1984 and then again from 2001 to 2006.
• Bridgestone tyres from 2007 to 2010.

Current Specification of Formula One Tyres

Starting from 2022, Pirelli introduced all-new 18-inch tyres, replacing the previous 13-inch ones.

These changes were part of a comprehensive update to the technical regulations, with every element of the tyre designed from scratch, including the profile, structure, and various compounds.

F1 Tyres Development Process

Pirelli dedicated over 10,000 hours to indoor testing, 5,000 hours to simulation, and developed 70 virtual prototypes to create 30 different specifications.

These specifications were then tested by teams, covering a distance of over 20,000 kilometres.

Compound Adjustments and Testing

After a successful first season under the new regulations, Pirelli made some compound adjustments in 2023.

They conducted tests during practice sessions for the Mexico City and Sao Paulo Grands Prix last year, as well as in Abu Dhabi during the post-season.

Alignment with Everyday Motorists

In addition to their impact on Formula 1, Pirelli's 18-inch tyres align more closely with the tyres used by everyday motorists.

This makes it easier to transfer technology between the sport and the road industry, benefiting from year-on-year innovations.

What are C1 C2 and C3 tyres?

Pirelli offers a range of six slick compounds, arranged from softest to hardest as C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5.

They also provide intermediate and full wet tyres to account for different weather conditions.

Is C1 the hardest tyre?

No, C1 is not the hardest tyre any longer. Compared to 2022, there is one additional compound. The C1 from last year is now called C0, the hardest tyre in the range. This year's C1 is a new product that finds itself between last year's C1 and C2.

Selection of Compounds for Each Grand Prix

Out of the C0-C5 slick compounds, Pirelli selects three to be used at each Grand Prix based on track characteristics and climates.

The three chosen compounds range from the hardest for tracks with greater demands on tyres to the softest for tracks with less demanding conditions.

Qualifying Format and Tyre Rules

During the 2023 season, up to two events will feature a "Revised Qualifying Format" (RQF) to evaluate its suitability for future championships.

Tyre Compounds in Revised Qualifying Format

The RQF mandates specific tyre compounds for each stage of the usual three-part qualifying session.

Q1 requires the use of hard tyres, Q2 mandates medium tyres, and Q3 allows only soft tyres. Intermediates and wet tyres are permitted if the RQF sessions are declared wet.

Tyre Allocation for RQF Events

During RQF events, each driver is allowed a maximum of 11 sets of dry-weather tyres (slightly fewer than the standard number mentioned earlier), along with four sets of F1 intermediate tyres and three sets of F1 wet tyres.

Tyre Longevity in Terms of Laps

The longevity of tyres can vary based on several factors such as track conditions, driving style, and the specific race circumstances.

However, on average, the different types of tyres can last as follows:

• Hard tyres tend to last for approximately 40 to 50 laps
• Medium tyres for around 30 to 40 laps
• Soft tyres for roughly 20 to 30 laps.

It's important to note that these are rough estimates and can differ from race to race.

What is the lifespan of a F1 Tyre?

The teams and drivers closely monitor tyre wear and make strategic decisions regarding when to make pit stops for fresh tyres based on their observations during the race.

Managing tyre wear and making well-timed pit stops is crucial in Formula 1 as it directly affects a driver's performance and race strategy.

The selection and usage of tyre compounds play a significant role in maximizing performance on different tracks and weather conditions.