Liam Lawson gets 'first taste' of 2026 F1 tyres, describes 'very different feeling'

Liam Lawson has completed his first significant running on Pirelli's new 2026 Formula 1 tyres, describing a "very different feeling" compared to the compounds used throughout the 2025 season. The Racing Bulls driver logged 141 laps during the post-season test at the Yas Marina Circuit, gathering initial data on the rubber that will be paired with the sport's radically new chassis and power unit regulations next year.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents the most significant technical overhaul in a generation, with new car and engine rules. The tyres are a critical, and often understated, component of this package. Early driver feedback on their characteristics provides the first real-world clues about how the new era of cars might behave on track and which teams could adapt quickest.

The details:

• Lawson emphasized the test was focused on gathering "important data to take forward" by running the new tyres in a performance window "as close as possible" to 2026 conditions.
• His description of a "very different feeling" suggests Pirelli has made substantial changes to the tyre construction or compounds to suit the new, lighter, and more aerodynamically efficient cars.
• For Lawson, the test was also a valuable mental exercise. He noted the winter break will give him "time to think about what I’ve just driven" before returning with the all-new car next year.

Looking ahead:

The data from this test will be invaluable for teams like Racing Bulls as they finalize their 2026 car designs over the winter. For Lawson, the 2026 season is a crucial opportunity to rebuild his standing within the Red Bull family after a challenging 2025 that saw him demoted from the senior team after just two races. He will be partnered by rookie Arvid Lindblad, setting the stage for a pivotal year in his F1 career as he aims to lead the team's development with the new regulations.