Pirelli’s Suzuka test culminated in a pivotal exploration of tire dynamics as RB F1 and Stake F1 showcased their prowess, affirming commitment to innovation.
Pirelli concluded its tests at Suzuka this Wednesday, with a day on which RB F1 and Stake F1 were back at work on the Japanese circuit. Valtteri Bottas continued for a second day with Stake, while Yuki Tsunoda took over from Daniel Ricciardo in the VCARB 01.
The rain didn’t hit the track early in the day, as it had before, allowing both drivers to run without issues. Bottas completed 149 laps of the Japanese circuit, while Tsunoda brought his total for the day to 115 loops. In total, this nearly amounted to five Grand Prix distances.
“Today was an excellent day; the sun shone during both sessions, and the laps we completed were almost three full race distances,” Bottas said.
“The day went smoothly again, the car was very enjoyable, and we tried various tires to gather important information for Pirelli, which will allow us to identify areas for improvement in the future.”
“Overall, these two days have been good and productive on my part – there’s nothing worse than spending another two days driving at Suzuka! Now, I’m heading straight to the simulator in Hinwil, as preparations for Shanghai are already underway.”
Yuki Tsunoda was happy to return to a circuit he loves and was able to use these tests to refine the tire manufacturer’s program: “I love Suzuka and am always happy to be able to drive here; I never tire of this circuit, and it’s amazing to see so many fans around the track.”
“Thanks to the good weather, the morning and afternoon sessions went very well with the slick tires, and I’m glad we could complete our full program, providing Pirelli with a lot of good data, making this day a success.”
Pirelli appreciates the “unbiased feedback” from drivers
Pirelli wanted to thank the two teams that helped develop its tires for 2025, but also to work on new constructions of wet, intermediate, and dry tires to improve their performance.
“First, I must thank RB F1 and Sauber, as well as the three drivers, for the support they have given us during these tests,” said Mario Isola, Pirelli Motorsport’s director. “Staying at the same circuit for an additional two days at the start of the season, while Formula 1 is in full swing, is no small feat.”
“As is always the case in these types of tests, one might say that the drivers are working in the dark, that is, without knowing what type of prototype they are testing, alternating with the current tires so that their feedback is completely unbiased.”
“With more than 3000 kilometers covered at Suzuka, we’ve gathered a large amount of data on the slick tires, as well as some insights into the intermediate tires.”
“In the coming months, this year’s testing program will continue to focus on finalizing a construction that offers greater durability and a complete renewal of the compound range, with the goal of reducing overheating. Furthermore, from September, the development of the 2026 tires will also begin.”
Pirelli’s next private testing sessions will be held on May 28 and 29 at Le Castellet, followed by June 14 and 15 at Mugello.
Pirelli’s Suzuka Test: RB F1 and Stake F1 Drive Innovation. Pirelli’s Suzuka Test: RB F1 and Stake F1 Drive Innovation
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