Pirelli is confident about the future regulation
For 2024, drivers will have to do without heated tires. A concern for some, but the manufacturer Pirelli remains convinced of the effectiveness of its future rubber.
In 2024, the regulations on tires are expected to change. Heated covers could be prohibited. A ban that raises concerns for some drivers, including George Russell.
“The director of the Formula 1 drivers’ association had tested these new tires in June in Barcelona under conditions which, in hindsight, likely weren’t tested under the right circumstances on the right track,” the driver told RacingNews365.
The British driver who tested these new tires that wouldn’t need a tyre warmer explains that « the tarmac was quite aggressive, the track temperature was 40 degrees, and completely rubbered in since the race weekend. They were very fragile when coming out of the pit lane, but towards turn 5, on the outer track, they were at a decent level. »
But, for the number 63 of Mercedes, other circuits with a significantly lower track temperature could complicate the situation. « To be completely honest, I don’t think we would be able to use these tires in a race. I would be very concerned for all the mechanics in the pit lane during a pit stop. I would be very worried about driving on the circuit during a race in cold conditions. There will be accidents, I have no doubt.
Pirelli responds to criticism
According to Pirelli, there would be no concern with the collected data. The Formula 1 manufacturer since 2011 is asking drivers to change their driving style. In terms of safety, I don’t see, based on the data I have seen, any specific risk. You definitely need to change your way of driving in the first lap, said Pirelli engineer Simon Berra.
« The drivers will have to adapt their driving style, even to protect the tire because we can generate graining even if we push too hard in the early corners and the tire is not at its temperature, the engineer continues for RacingNews365.
Even if the pilots’ opinion is contrary, Pirelli should still remove the tire warmers for the 2024 season. « I respect the pilots’ opinion, for sure. But I think obviously, there will be differences compared to the old products and the whole tire management. »
