As the 2026 F1 season approaches, technical regulation uncertainties loom, with debates on tire sizes and aerodynamics. Pirelli’s influence on decisions marks a significant phase in shaping the future of racing.
A decision was initially expected by next July, but there are rumors of a potential delay until October this year.
What’s certain, however, is the choice of tires, with Pirelli managing to persuade against changing the tire diameter.
Originally, the plan was to reduce tire size from 18 inches to 16 inches to help lower the overall weight of F1 cars. Pirelli was opposed to this. The Italian company believes that the risk of overheating is less if the circumference remains roughly the same.
Therefore, Pirelli argues that the tire diameter should only be minimally reduced. Currently, the slick tires measure 720 millimeters. This will be decreased to 705 millimeters at the front and 710 millimeters at the back. This results in front wheels that are slightly smaller than the rear ones but still 18 inches.
One of the main goals of the 2026 rules is to reduce aerodynamic drag, to lower the energy consumption of the cars. As a result, it has been decided to narrow the tires. The front tires will go from 305 to 275 millimeters, and the rear tires from 405 to 375 millimeters.
Starting in 2026, F1 cars will be only 190 centimeters wide instead of 200.
Pirelli wishes to begin testing with the 2026 tires as early as September this year.
F1’s 2026 Shift: Slimmer Tires for Greener Racing. F1’s 2026 Shift: Slimmer Tires for Greener Racing
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