Pirelli is a brand well identified with F1 according to its boss Mario Isola
In the Spa paddock, the Director of Pirelli Motorsport spoke about future F1 tires and the commercial impact of the Italian brand's involvement in F1.
Pirelli is a brand now well established in Formula 1. Returning to the premier motorsport competition in 2011 after many years of absence, the Milan-based brand aims to capitalize on its involvement with the general public. At Spa, the head of Pirelli Motorsport, Mario Isola, gave us a few words.
« Pirelli is a brand that people naturally associate with Formula 1 now. With the growth of the sport in recent years, we are part of the F1 landscape. For us, this is also reflected in the size of the company. Initially, we were a few dozen people involved in F1 and today we are several hundred with a base in England to be close to the teams. »
Regarding the commercial aspect and the repercussions that such involvement can have on the company, Isola remains more cautious.
« It is difficult to quantify the commercial impacts since our entry into F1. It is not just about sport. We are heavily dependent on disruptions related to the global automotive market and, of course, the global economic and geopolitical context in general. »
Regarding the connections that can exist between racing tires and road tires, the Italian executive is categorical. Numerous connections exist between the two worlds.
« What we learn on the track helps us develop our tires for production cars. For example, what we develop on rain tires in terms of grip is crucial to making the everyday person’s tires safer. »
Finally, Isola also informed us that the development of the tires, and especially the 2026 rain tires, is progressing according to the established plan. As a reminder, the F1 technical regulations in 2026 will undergo significant changes with revised aerodynamics and engines featuring greater electrical power.
