Pirelli Introduces C6 Tire to Enhance Competition on Street Circuits

Formula 1 is set to see a shift in tire strategy this season as FIA introduces new regulations requiring a minimum of three different tire sets for the Monaco Grand Prix. The move is aimed at encouraging teams to adopt more dynamic race strategies.

C6 Compound Designed for Two-Stop Races

Mario Isola, head of Pirelli Motorsport, explained the intent behind the newly introduced C6 compound:

“Teams always find a way to apply a one-stop strategy. We are trying to push them to have a two-stop strategy because it’s better, it’s more action, more unpredictability, and better races.”

The C6 tire underwent its initial testing at Imola Circuit, and the data collected will be crucial for future applications, especially on street circuits.

Circuits Targeted for C6 Implementation

Pirelli aims to use a variety of compound combinations to increase performance variability and strategic depth in select races. The circuits currently under consideration for the C6 compound include:

• Canadian Grand Prix

• Las Vegas Grand Prix

• Baku Grand Prix

• Singapore Grand Prix

• Mexican Grand Prix

Engineering Insights Behind the C6 Rollout

Simone Berra, Pirelli’s Chief Engineer, highlighted the importance of collecting performance data from multiple circuits to verify the C6 compound’s effectiveness in diverse race conditions.

“We need feedback from various street tracks to ensure the new compound works under different temperatures and race profiles,” Berra stated.