Breaking news: Max Verstappen’s Fiery Condemnation of Pirelli Tyres…. read more
Max Verstappen’s Fiery Condemnation of Pirelli Tyres…. read more
At the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Max Verstappen delivered a pointed critique of Pirelli’s tyre performance, underscoring ongoing concerns about degradation and overheating issues that have plagued Formula 1 racing.
During the qualifying session at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, Verstappen secured a close second place, trailing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by just 0.034 seconds. Despite the narrow margin, the Red Bull Racing driver expressed significant frustration with the tyre selection, particularly the softer compounds, which he felt hindered his ability to extract optimal performance from his car. Verstappen noted that the tyres were prone to overheating, compelling him to adjust his driving style and pace, ultimately affecting his qualifying performance.
This criticism aligns with broader concerns within the F1 community regarding Pirelli’s tyre performance. The Italian manufacturer has acknowledged the challenges posed by tyre overheating, especially with the introduction of new compounds aimed at encouraging two-stop strategies. Pirelli has been conducting tests to address these issues, aiming to enhance tyre durability and performance.
Verstappen’s comments add to a growing narrative of dissatisfaction among drivers about tyre performance. His candid assessment highlights the ongoing challenges teams face in balancing tyre durability with performance, a topic that continues to be a focal point in discussions about the future of Formula 1 racing.
As the season progresses, the impact of tyre performance on race outcomes remains a critical area of focus. Verstappen’s outspoken critique serves as a reminder of the essential role tyres play in the sport and the continuous need for innovation and improvement in this area.
