During the Qatar Grand Prix, drivers must make three pit stops, with a maximum of 18 laps per stint. Newly-crowned World Champion Max Verstappen starts on pole, adding anticipation to the race.
In response to safety concerns regarding tire wear, the FIA has mandated that all drivers make at least three pit stops during Sunday’s Qatar Grand Prix.
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Following concerns raised by tire manufacturer Pirelli after Friday’s practice session, the FIA conducted additional analysis after Saturday’s 19-lap Sprint, leading the governing body to enforce a maximum limit of 18 laps per stint. As a result, all drivers must make at least three pit stops during the 57-lap Qatar Grand Prix.
The FIA cited three Safety Car interruptions during the Sprint, which led to limited full-speed running. Consequently, the governing body reaffirmed its previous analysis, deeming the gathered data “insufficient.”
The Losail International Circuit’s high-speed layout and distinctive ‘pyramid’ kerbs are straining the tires, prompting concerns. Despite alterations to track limits at Turns 12 and 13 during Saturday’s Sprint, the risk of prolonged stints remained unresolved.
On Sunday, the FIA stated: “Due to the frequency of Safety Car interventions in yesterday’s Sprint, the tyre data available for analysis by Pirelli was insufficient to add to that already undertaken following previous track sessions.”
Tyres analyzed post-Sprint exhibited sidewall separation, likely due to high-frequency contact with the ‘pyramid’ kerbs. This ruling intensifies the 57-lap race, with champion Max Verstappen on pole, followed by Mercedes’ George Russell and Lewis Hamilton. Verstappen clinched his third title in the Sprint, hinting at the medium tyre’s superior performance on the new surface compared to the soft compound.
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