Pirelli launches vital 2026 Formula 1 tyre testing in Barcelona with Mercedes, Red Bull, and Racing Bulls joining two-day development programme.
Pirelli drew a positive conclusion from the Spanish Grand Prix, with multiple strategies emerging due to degradation and heat. Despite 19 drivers starting on soft tyres, the approaches soon diversified between two- and three-stop strategies.
The work is far from over for the tyre manufacturer, which will conduct tests in preparation for 2026 on the same circuit with three teams, starting this Tuesday and continuing on Wednesday. Mercedes will run on both days, joined by Racing Bulls on one day and Red Bull on the other.
Tyre Strategy Shapes Sunday
“A very interesting Sunday in terms of tyre usage. As was the case last year at this circuit, the softs proved to be the most competitive, perhaps even more so than in 2024,” said Mario Isola, Pirelli’s Head of Motorsport.
“As for degradation, the data observed was quite consistent with what we saw during Friday’s free practice sessions: it was significant but manageable. Wear was also high, though not surprising, even if, in certain stints, the limit was reached on the front-left — the most stressed tyre on this track.”
Softs Stretch, Strategy Shifts
“Some drivers completed more than 20 laps on a set of softs, even with full fuel loads, while others managed 30 or more on a set of mediums.”
“There was also the Red Bull variable, as they tried to mix things up with a three-stop strategy, which was clearly slower on paper. They had nothing to lose with Tsunoda, who started from the pit lane, but it was a risky bet with Verstappen — one that should have secured him a podium and brought him close to the McLarens.”
“However, the late-race safety car changed the game for Max, who had been pushing aggressively throughout. His chances were then wiped out.”
Pirelli’s Crucial 2026 Tests
The Italian went on to outline the testing schedule for Tuesday and Wednesday: “Pirelli will remain on this circuit for two days of testing, this Tuesday and Wednesday, which will be very important for 2026.”
“On this occasion, Mercedes, Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls will provide their cars and drivers. On Tuesday, George Russell will be on track for Mercedes, while Isack Hadjar and Liam Lawson will both drive a Racing Bulls. On Wednesday, Kimi Antonelli will be behind the wheel of the Mercedes, while Yuki Tsunoda will drive a Red Bull.”
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