Pirelli is already hard at work on the new tyres for the 2025 Formula 1 season, with significant advancements in their development. In an exclusive interview with GPblog.com, Mario Isola, the head of Pirelli’s motorsport division, discussed the company’s plans and highlighted the importance of driver feedback, particularly from top drivers like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. He also touched on the challenges Pirelli faces as they prepare for the 2026 season, when new cars, engines, and tyres will be introduced.

Isola revealed that the new tyre construction for 2025 is almost complete, with a focus on enhancing the integrity and durability of the tyres. One of Pirelli’s primary objectives is to rebalance the compound range, especially between the C1, C2, and C3 compounds. Currently, there’s a small gap between the C1 and C2 compounds, but a larger one between the C2 and C3. Pirelli’s target is to achieve more consistency by creating a half-second delta in lap times between compounds, which would mean making the C2 more competitive and closer to the C3, while the C1 would also be brought closer to the C3.

Isola explained that this adjustment is in response to simulations carried out by the FIA, F1, and several teams. By reducing the lap time gaps and better defining degradation levels, Pirelli aims to encourage more pit stops during races. Ideally, the goal is to have a mix of one-stop, two-stop, and even three-stop strategies, with a preference for two-stop races to make the sport more exciting for spectators. This year, Pirelli has already experimented by introducing softer compounds in some races compared to last year, which has increased on-track variation and action, much to the delight of fans.

When asked about other targets for the 2025 tyres, Isola mentioned that apart from improved durability, reducing overheating is a key goal. Overheating is an issue raised by drivers, and Pirelli is working to address it. However, Isola noted that defining and tackling tyre overheating is not straightforward. The company has conducted in-depth analyses of driver comments, looking at specific corners and situations to understand various parameters like surface temperature, carcass temperature, pressure, and wear. These analyses help Pirelli to refine their tyres, but there isn’t always a direct link between a driver’s comment and a specific measurable parameter.

Driver feedback is more crucial than ever, especially given the limited testing opportunities in the current F1 calendar. Isola emphasized the value of both positive and negative feedback from drivers, but explained that actionable feedback is the most useful. Pirelli’s engineers collect data and driver input from each race to continuously improve their tyre designs.

In conclusion, Pirelli’s focus for 2025 is on improving the tyres’ integrity, reducing overheating, and achieving a more balanced compound range. With the feedback of top drivers and data analysis, Pirelli is working to create tyres that will offer more strategic diversity and on-track action, enhancing the excitement of F1 races.