F1 Drops Softest Tyre, Finalizes 2026 Compound Range
Pirelli has confirmed its 2026 Formula 1 dry tyre lineup will consist of five compounds, eliminating the softest C6 tyre. This move is driven by the need to ensure a clear performance gap between compounds, fostering greater strategic diversity in races under the sport's new regulations. Extensive testing and team data informed this decision, aiming for a more exciting and unpredictable future for F1.
Formula 1 will not feature its softest C6 tyre in the 2026 season, as Pirelli has completed its analysis and finalized a five-compound range for the new regulatory era. This decision aims to ensure greater strategic variation by maintaining a significant performance delta between each of the five dry compounds.
Why it matters:
The introduction of new regulations in 2026, featuring drastically different car designs, demands a completely re-engineered tyre strategy. By optimizing the compound range, Pirelli aims to foster more unpredictable racing and diverse pit stop strategies, crucial for enhancing the spectacle of Formula 1. The removal of the C6 compound directly addresses feedback about insufficient performance gaps between the softer tyres.
The Details:
- Five Compounds for 2026: Pirelli will offer five dry tyre compounds, ranging from the hardest C1 to the softest C5. The C6 compound, which made limited appearances in 2024 at tracks like Imola and Monaco, has been permanently removed from the lineup.
- Strategic Delta Focus: Pirelli's primary objective was to ensure a clear and consistent performance difference, or 'delta,' between each compound. This is intended to provide teams with more distinct strategic choices during races.
- C6 Elimination Justification: The C6 compound was dropped because testing revealed an insufficient lap time gap between it and the C5 compound. Maintaining a noticeable performance difference is key to encouraging varied strategies.
- Development Process: Tyre development was based on extensive data supplied by teams, utilizing simulations predicting the loads and speeds of the 2026 cars.
- Post-Season Testing: A one-day test is scheduled for the Tuesday following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. All teams will participate, with current race drivers using 'mule' cars (adapted 2024 cars simulating 2026 downforce levels) to test C2-C5 compounds. Young drivers will also participate using 2025 cars with current tyres.
What's next:
The upcoming Abu Dhabi test will provide the first real-world feedback on the C2-C5 compounds with cars designed to mimic 2026 characteristics. This data will be vital for Pirelli to fine-tune the final specifications, ensuring the tyres are perfectly matched to the demands of the new generation of Formula 1 cars. The emphasis on distinct compound deltas promises to be a key talking point as teams begin to strategize for the revolutionary 2026 season.