Alpine and Williams continue crucial Pirelli tests at Sakhir, refining the next-generation 18” tires set to debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season.
After three days of testing involving all drivers and teams competing in the Formula 1 World Championship, the Sakhir circuit now hosts an extended session with two additional days of Pirelli testing, carried out with Alpine and Williams.
The objective remains unchanged since the start of the year: to develop the new generation of 18” tires, 25 millimeters narrower at the front and 30 millimeters at the rear, set to be introduced in 2026.
The program began yesterday, focusing on evaluating different constructions while using the same compound. Spaniard Carlos Sainz was at the wheel of the Williams, completing a total of 116 laps, the fastest in 1’34”740, while Alpine fielded Japan’s Ryo Hirakawa, who had traveled from the Losail circuit, where he competed last Friday in the 1812-kilometer race of Qatar, the opening round of the World Endurance Championship.
Hirakawa completed 131 laps, his best time being 1’35”336. Both cars were specially modified to accommodate the new tire specification, based on those used during the 2023 season: the Alpine A523 and the Williams FW45.
Testing continues at this circuit on Monday, with Paul Aron driving the Alpine and Alexander Albon taking the wheel of the Williams.
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Sakhir Sessions: Alpine & Williams Shape F1’s Future Sakhir Sessions: Alpine & Williams Shape F1’s Future