2019 PIRELLI MOTORSPORT MEDIA GUIDE - researchracing ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
2019 PIRELLI MOTORSPORT MEDIA GUIDE
2019 PIRELLI MOTORSPORT MEDIA GUIDE Contents 1. Introduction 2. Pirelli’s key people in 2019 3. Formula 1 regulations for 2019 in brief 4. Meet the 2019 Formula 1 compounds 6. How will the Formula 1 tyre regulations work? 7. The 2019 Formula 1 circuits and their tyre characteristics 10. The life of a competition tyre 11. The barcode: each tyre’s ‘passport’ 12. Formula 2 and Formula 3 13. GT and other competitions 14. Rally 15. Formula 4 and other regional series 16. From racetrack to road 17. Race Tyre System: Pirelli’s unique database 18. Pirelli and motorsport marketing 19. The evolution of Pirelli’s technology 21. How motorsport benefits Pirelli’s road car tyres 22. Pirelli Collezione 23. Pirelli media contacts and social media
INTRODUCTION
S
ince Pirelli began as sole out a specific test programme only three colours at every is supporting the careers of
tyre supplier to Formula during 2019 as we prepare for race; with white being hard, young drivers. Not only do we
1’s latest era from 2011, 2020. The following year, 2021, yellow being medium and red supply the FIA Formula 2 and
the tyre range has been will herald the introduction of being soft. This should make newly-created FIA Formula
renewed for every season; 18-inch tyres for Formula 1 – the sport a little easier to 3 championships alongside
either with new compounds, after decades of 13-inch tyres. follow for the casual fan, while F1, but we also equip the new
new constructions, or both. retaining enough technical Formula Regional European
The 2019 season is no Even though that’s two years detail for those who want to Championship F3 cars and
exception, with a fresh range away, we’ll be starting work track the finer points of various Formula 4 series.
of five slick compounds, as on this right now, although tyre strategy. From the grass roots to the
well as a revised wet tyre and the exact technical regulations pinnacle of motorsport, Pirelli
intermediate tyre. from 2021 onwards are not But there’s much more to is a constant presence.
yet completely defined. Last Pirelli in motorsport than
It’s not just the tyres that year, a renewal of our current F1 alone. This year, we’re
have changed for 2019, as F1 contract was announced, increasing our presence in GT
there have been some new which means that Pirelli will racing, the form of motorsport
technical rules too, which be F1’s global tyre partner closest to premium and
have been designed to make until at least 2023. prestige cars that come
it easier to overtake and equipped with Pirelli tyres in
help the show. The effect of With Pirelli being the over 50% of cases throughout
these changes on lap times market leader for ultra high the world. This expansion has
remains to be seen, which has performance road cars, as well happened in the emerging
been one of the challenges as a brand synonymous with Asian market in particular,
associated with developing style, luxury and technology, underlining Pirelli’s status as
the latest range of tyres. Formula 1 is the perfect fit the premier supplier to GT3
for us, which is why we’re series throughout the world,
Our 2019 tyre compounds delighted to be associated as well as the growing
were informed by a series with the sport for many years GT4 category.
of test days involving every into the future. We’re also
team throughout the 2018 slimming down the options to As always, a cornerstone of
season, and we’ll be carrying just five slick compounds and Pirelli’s motorsport philosophy
1
PIRELLI’S KEY PEOPLE IN 2019
T
he 55 or so people returning to Italy in 2012, he while also managing Pirelli’s Stefano Bizzi analysis methods for the development department of
who form the Pirelli F1 worked in the Moto Business return to single-seater racing Head of Motorsport Research company. More recently, he Pirelli’s consumer division,
race team are only the Unit as Controller and later in GP3. In 2011 Mario became and Development has been responsible for finite working with future
forefront of the hundreds of became Chief Operating Pirelli’s racing manager, element model development compounds for cars, SUVs,
people who work on Pirelli’s Officer of Pirelli’s Industrial in charge of day-to-day for Formula 1 tyres as well as vans and motorbikes, as well
Formula 1 campaign, many Design project. After following operations on the track for development of wind tunnel as motorsport.
of whose efforts behind the the New Pirelli Industrial Formula 1 as well as all other tyres: vital tools for teams to
scenes go unnoticed by the initiative, in 2016, he took on motorsport activities. work with as they refine their Roberto Boccafogli
general public. At Pirelli’s the role of Chief Commercial cars. Massimo heads up the F1 Head of F1 Marketing and
HQ in Milan, Italy, there are Officer of the Business Marco Marioni Stefano comes to motorsport Modelling department, which Media Relations
hundreds of people working Unit Prestige, consolidating Motorsport Chief from Pirelli’s renowned brings together all the different
not only in the research and relations with some of the Technical Officer prestige division, where he was areas and technologies involved
development department, but most important international responsible for creating tyres in modelling Formula 1 tyres,
also on motorsport marketing, car manufacturers. for some of the world’s most providing accurate performance
communication and activation. famous car manufacturers, analysis that can also be
Mario Isola the majority of which choose used for F1 simulators and
Giovanni Tronchetti Provera Head of F1 and Car Racing Pirelli to equip their flagship generating data for the future. Roberto re-joined Pirelli
Head of Motorsport and models. This experience of in 2014, having previously
Prestige Marco, who studied engineering cutting-edge research and Francesco Romani worked for the company’s
in Milan, has been with Pirelli development is now at the Compound Development press office within both
since 1986 in a variety of roles disposal of Pirelli’s motorsport Manager motorsport and product
all over the world. Starting his department as Stefano joins communications areas. He’s
career in logistics, he became for the 2019 season, with a passionate enthusiast and
Mario, born in Milan, started business manager and the mission of improving the published author: having
his career in motorsport as a manufacturing director, before current Formula 1 product and been a journalist since 1981,
Giovanni joined Pirelli in 2008 test driver for Pirelli’s road car heading up Pirelli’s supply also developing tyres for the he started following Formula 1
but takes on a new motorsport tyres, and the sensitivity of chain and quality divisions. brand-new regulations that will in 1986 and since then he has
role this season, reinforcing the his touch meant that he was This gave him a 360-degree make their debut in 2021. Francesco also joined Pirelli covered about 300 grands
strong links between Pirelli’s soon drafted into the R&D vision of the company’s in 2000, and he has worked prix for both the written press
prestige road car products and division, designing road car processes, to the highest Massimo Donatellis in motorsport since 2003. and television. Roberto is
competition. His experience tyres before heading over to standards. He brought these Head of Motorsport Francesco co-ordinates also responsible for Formula
in the company began in the motorsport. He was initially skills to motorsport by taking Modelling, Formula 1 Formula 1 materials production 1 activation, making the most
United Kingdom, following the involved in designing tyres for responsibility for all technical and development work carried of Pirelli’s presence in Formula
process of engineering and the GT cars and then moved onto activities regarding Pirelli’s out by Pirelli’s research facilities 1 to the wider world. These
industrialisation of the product. managing Pirelli’s sportscar motorsport programmes, from worldwide. He is also include activities such as the
In 2010, he moved to Russia, campaigns in the FIA GT Formula 1 to production-based responsible for product F1 Pirelli Hot Laps programme,
where he acquired experience Championship. From 2006 categories. Away from the analysis both off the track and where lucky guests are driven
with production facilities and he moved over to rallying, track, Marco enjoys classic on it, using a mobile laboratory around the F1 circuits in
deepened his knowledge of overseeing Pirelli’s tenure cars: like most people who Since joining Pirelli in 2000, that is taken to every race. supercars by a racing
the manufacturing world and of the exclusive tyre supply work in Pirelli, he lives his Massimo has directed the Since 2016, Francesco has driver, during the actual
industrial processes. After contract from 2008-2010 passion on a day to day basis. development of new structural also led the compound race weekend. 2
FORMULA 1 REGULATIONS FOR 2019 IN BRIEF
T
he actual tyre rules similar to last year’s, Here’s a quick summary of one set after the first 40
themselves don’t involving all the teams. As the sporting regulations minutes of FP1, one set at
change from 2018 was the case in 2018, Pirelli relating to tyres in 2019: the end of FP1, two sets
to 2019, but cornering and will again be able to test at the end of FP2 and two
lap speeds will be affected with current cars. However, oP
irelli will still provide sets at the end of FP3.
by the new aerodynamic the tyres have a somewhat three different This leaves them with
regulations – with simpler different look to them, with compounds of slick seven sets available for
wings and barge boards only five compounds and tyre for teams to use qualifying and the race
– as well as an increased three colours used during at each race weekend. (which must include the
fuel allowance. 2019 (white for hard, yellow The number of slick sets mandatory sets).
for medium and red for provided for each car
During the course of the soft). As a result, there will during a weekend will oT
eams must communicate
2019 season, Pirelli will be new graphics as well, remain at 13. their compound choices
continue to test for 2020 in making tyre choice and to the FIA eight weeks in
a private testing programme. strategy easier to follow. oP
irelli will select two advance of each European
sets that must remain race and 14 weeks before
available for the race, the start of each flyaway
while a set of the softest race. Decisions will be kept
compound will also be secret until two weeks
put aside for the final before a race.
part of qualifying. Teams
can make up their 10 This year, the Formula 1
remaining sets from calendar features 21 races
the three compounds all over the world, starting
available at each race. in Melbourne, Australia, on
March 17. The final round
oT
he choices teams make of the series takes place in
can be different for each Abu Dhabi on December
of its cars. 1 – making 2019 one of the
longest Formula 1 seasons
oD
rivers must continue to in recent history.Dhabi on
use at least two different December 1 – making 2019
compounds during a one of the longest
dry race. Formula 1 seasons in
recent history.
oA
s usual teams will
continue to hand back
tyres to Pirelli over the
course of the weekend: 3
MEET THE 2019 FORMULA 1 COMPOUNDS
Dry weather compounds
Size: 305/670-13 (front), 405/670-13 (rear)
Each compound doesn’t have a permanent allocated colour this year: instead they are numbered C1 to C5, with C1 being the hardest
and C5 being the softest. The characteristics of the tyres have also changed slightly, designed to increase resistance to overheating
and provide greater consistency over the course of a stint.
C1 C2 C3 C4 C5
C1 stands for Compound C2 means Compound This tyre is equivalent This is closest to the The softest 2019
1, and it’s the hardest 2, effectively last to the soft that was 2018 ultrasoft and it compound is
tyre in the 2019 Pirelli year’s medium tyre. A nominated in all but works well on tight and the heir to the
range, sitting just below versatile compound, four of the races last twisty circuits. It has universally-popular
the 2018 hard in terms but sitting at the harder year. It strikes a very a rapid warm-up and hypersoft: the fastest
of compounding. It’s part of the spectrum, good balance between huge peak performance, compound that Pirelli
designed for circuits that it comes into its own performance and but the other side of has ever made. This tyre
put the highest energy on circuits that tend durability, with the this is its relatively is suitable for all circuits
loadings through the towards high speeds, accent on performance. limited overall life. that demand high
tyres, which will typically temperatures, and It’s a very adaptable However, the improved levels of mechanical
feature fast corners, energy loadings. This tyre that can be used as consistency of this grip, but the trade-off
abrasive surfaces, or high tyre has demonstrated the softest compound year’s compounds for this extra speed
ambient temperatures. an ample working range at a high-severity track should mean that the and adhesion is a
The compound takes and adaptability to as well as the hardest softer rubber is capable considerably shorter
longer to warm up a wide variety of compound at a of more versatile use. lifespan than the other
but offers maximum different circuits. low-severity track tyres in the range.
durability and provides or street circuit. Getting the most out
low degradation. of it will be a key to
race strategy.
4
MEET THE 2019 FORMULA 1 COMPOUNDS
Wet weather compounds
The wet and intermediate tyres have been redesigned this year with new tread patterns and structures. This makes them more efficient
and also more versatile. As a result, there are no longer two specifications of wet and intermediate tyre in 2019: instead just one wet
tyre and one intermediate tyre to suit all circuits and conditions. Unlike the slick tyres, the colours are unchanged this year, and they
continue to be branded Cinturato, in homage to a name that has been synonymous with safety and control since the 1950s.
Intermediate (green) Wet (blue)
The intermediates are The full wet tyres are
the most versatile of the most effective
the rain tyres. They solution for heavy
can be used on a wet rain. These tyres can
track with no standing evacuate 85 litres of
water, as well as a water per second per
drying surface. This tyre tyre at 300kph. There’s
evacuates 30 litres of a new profile designed
water per second per to increase resistance
tyre at 300kph. There’s to aquaplaning, which
a new compound that will give the tyre more
is designed to expand grip in heavy rain. The
the working range, diameter of the full wet
guaranteeing a proper tyre is 10mm wider than
crossover both with the the slick tyre.
slicks and the full wets.
Size: 305/675-13 (front), Size: 305/680-13 (front),
405/675-13 (rear). 405/680-13 (rear).
5
HOW WILL THE 2019 F1 TYRE REGULATIONS WORK?
T
he tyre markings are markings to tell the five There is no specific ‘qualifying
all-new for this year, but compounds apart. tyre’, but as it is the softest
how about everything of the trio of compounds
else? Here’s everything you Is the total number of sets available then it is frequently
wanted to know about tyres… of tyres available over a used in Q3. And of course, all
but never dared to ask. weekend still the same? three nominated compounds
Yes, this hasn’t changed. There are intended to be viable
are still 13 sets of dry-weather options for the race. The
Why just three colours for tyres available over a weekend drivers who don’t get
this year? per driver. Of the 13 sets, two through to Q3 can keep the
It’s just to make it easier are chosen by Pirelli to remain mandatory Q3 set and use it
for casual fans to follow, available for the race, which in the race.
while maintaining a level could be either the same or
of technical detail for the differing compounds. However, Does the stipulation that
hardcore devotees. Some there is only a requirement to drivers have to start races on Does the ‘mandatory race tyre supplied with the options a stint. They will also have five
people found the seven use one of those obligatory their Q2 tyres still apply? specification’ mean it’s not week earlier. kilograms more fuel in 2019,
different colours of slicks sets. A set of the softest Yes, the regulations state: really a free tyre choice? which should lead to less
and wide range of names compound available is also set “at the start of the race each There is a free choice because In short, how will tyre strategy fuel-saving.
last year a bit confusing, aside for Q3. Those who don’t car that qualified for Q3 while Pirelli is selecting two in an average 2019 grand prix
so this streamlines the get through to Q3 carry them must be fitted with the tyres sets of tyres to be made be different to tyre strategy in Do the 2019 tyres feature the
whole process. over into the race. Of the 10 with which the driver set his available for each race, there an average 2018 grand prix? thinner gauge tread seen at
remaining sets, teams/drivers fastest time during Q2.” are still another 10 available It’s hard to know exactly three races last year?
Why those colours – white, choose what they would for a team and driver to go as because the cars will be Yes, as this was proven to
yellow and red? like from the three Can all three nominated tyre aggressive or as conservative a bit different, with less help reduce overheating.
Three reasons. Firstly, these are available compounds. compounds be used in a race? as they wish. downforce. This has been
iconic Pirelli colours. Secondly, Yes – and we’ve seen this designed to help promote When are the new 18-inch
tests have shown that they will Will teams still have to hand happen quite a few times. Do the early deadlines mean overtaking and make it tyres being introduced and
stand out best on television back one of their sets after 40 drivers are committing to tyre easier for the cars to follow when will they be tested?
and, finally, they represent a minutes of first practice? Do the same rules apply strategies months ahead of each other. Generally, the The 18-inch tyres will be
logical sequence: the warmer Yes. The teams have to hand for the minimum use of a a race? teams will probably still introduced for the 2021
the colour, the softer back one set after 40 minutes compound in each race? Effectively, yes, because aim for one-stop strategies season, along with new
the compound. of the first free practice The rules simply state “each teams must inform the whenever possible as this technical regulations. Work
session (FP1), but they get to driver must use at least two FIA eight weeks before tends to be the most on designing these tyres has
What about for testing when choose which one. different specifications of the start of a European risk-free tactic in a race. already started, with on-track
all five compounds are present: dry-weather tyres during the event, and 14 weeks before The nominations have been testing beginning next year.
how do you tell them apart? Is the ‘mandatory Q3 race.” So even if it’s one lap on a non-European race, the designed to be a bit more
We’ve got a system where tyre’ effectively a tyre for a set of softs and 50 or more quantities of the three conservative this year, which
we’ll use all three colours qualifying and can it be used laps on a set of mediums, compounds they wish to use should mean that the drivers
but with different sidewall in the race too? that’s still within the rules. at that event, after being can push harder within a 6
THE 2019 FORMULA 1 CIRCUITS AND THEIR CHARACTERISTICS
Australian Grand Prix to a strong qualifying and Azerbaijan Grand Prix traditionally one of the most Canadian Grand Prix Located in Le Castellet, near
(17 March) race pace. The grand prix (28 April) challenging circuits of the (9 June) Marseille in southeast France,
starts in the late afternoon, season for tyres, which is Circuit Paul Ricard returned
so temperatures fall as the particularly hard work for the to the calendar last year,
race goes on, affecting left-hand tyres, especially in featuring a long straight and
tyre behaviour. The race is Turn 3. Resurfacing last year a wide variety of technical
followed by the first had a big impact on the track corners. Paul Ricard also
The Australian Grand Prix is a in-season test. characteristics, reducing marked the start of Formula
race loved by teams and fans Baku is the fastest street wear and degradation. The The iconic Circuit Gilles 1’s first-ever triple header in
alike. The atmosphere is great, Chinese Grand Prix circuit on the calendar, second in-season test takes Villeneuve is a semi- 2018, but much to the relief
the weather is usually warm, (14 April) running through the centre place following this race. permanent track, of most of the teams, this has
and the track is close to the of the Azerbaijani capital, infrequently used during now been removed for 2019.
vibrant city of Melbourne. with some tight 90-degree Monaco Grand Prix the year, which means Like Barcelona, a new surface
With the Australian circuit corners as well as a few (26 May) that at the beginning of was laid last year, but some
being a semi-permanent straights. The track was the weekend the track is areas of the track have been
facility, there is a high level designed by renowned very ‘green’ and slippery. resurfaced again for 2019.
of track evolution as the circuit architect Hermann However, there is plenty
weekend goes on. The Shanghai International Tilke and incorporates a of track evolution as more Austrian Grand Prix
Circuit has hosted some number of unique features rubber gets laid down (30 June)
Bahrain Grand Prix thrilling and unpredictable such as an extremely narrow throughout the weekend.
(31 March) races in the past and a uphill section, and a straight Monaco is probably the most This track puts a lot of
wide variety of pit stop that runs the length of the famous race of the season, longitudinal stress through
strategies can work at this seaside promenade. taking place on a street the tyres and is very
track. Although ambient circuit in the Principality. It demanding in terms of
temperatures can be Spanish Grand Prix is also the slowest and least braking and traction. The
quite low and the surface (12 May) abrasive circuit of the year. surface provides little grip, Austria re-joined the calendar
is relatively smooth, tyre Tyre wear is low: mechanical which can lead to the cars in 2014, having been absent
degradation is sometimes grip and high levels of low- sliding more. The rear tyres since 2003. As the Red Bull
Bahrain is very tough on high due to the unique speed downforce are very are particularly stressed at Ring in its latest incarnation,
rear tyres in particular with track layout. Overall, it is a important here. Overtaking this track, due to the traction it now features two main
a high level of traction and demanding circuit for the is nearly impossible, putting required out of the low and straights and mostly sharp
grip required for a good tyres: especially the front- Barcelona is extremely well the emphasis on qualifying. medium speed corners. corners. As a result, average
lap time. As it is located left. The heavy braking that known to all the drivers With limited run-off areas This year, a new paddock speeds are generally low,
in the desert, it is quite is a characteristic of this and teams because of and a high risk of incidents complex is planned. meaning that the cars have
common to have sand track tends to put more the many tests that have the safety car has often to rely on mechanical grip
on the track, which can strain on the front tyres than been held there, including influenced the race outcome French Grand Prix from the tyres more than
lower the grip levels, in the rears. Some graining both pre-season tests at this track in the past. (23 June) aerodynamic downforce.
particular at the start of is also possible as the this year. The circuit itself Because most of the corners
a session. This is a track tyres cool down on the has several medium to are right-handers, the tyres
where tyre management is long straights. high speed corners that on the left of the car do
important, with rear traction test every aspect of a the majority of the work.
in particular being the key tyre’s performance. It is However, the pair of corners 7
THE 2019 FORMULA 1 CIRCUITS AND THEIR CHARACTERISTICS
that actually take the most Hockenheim is characterised to getting the most out of Italian Grand Prix run under powerful spotlights, compounds in the range are
energy out of the tyres are by slow to medium speed the compound. Overtaking (8 September) with 23 corners. The circuit usually nominated.
the two left-handers. corners connected by fast is traditionally difficult at itself is low-grip and slippery;
straights. Traction and this track, so drivers have an evolving considerably Japanese Grand Prix
British Grand Prix braking are therefore key, opportunity to use strategy as more rubber gets laid (13 October)
(14 July) with lots of acceleration and to gain track position. down. Average speeds are
deceleration. Looking after contained, so degradation is
the rear tyres is important, Belgian Grand Prix not usually an issue provided
even though a very smooth (1 September) The Italian Grand Prix is that wheelspin – which can
surface helps to limit Pirelli’s home grand prix, as lead to overheating and
degradation. There are some Monza is just half an hour blistering – is controlled
fast corners too: in particular from company headquarters out of the slower corners. Suzuka is a little less
Silverstone is another Turn 5, a protracted left- in Milan. There is always a The softest compounds are aggressive on the tyres than
challenging track for the hander that forms the special atmosphere thanks usually well suited for this in the past, but the circuit
tyres, with the new surface longest high-speed section to so many passionate fans, race, and the fact that the is still a difficult one for the
laid last year not meeting on the circuit and where the Spa-Francorchamps is the most of which support high temperatures tend to fall rubber because of the track
with universal acclaim: most energy goes through longest and one of the most just one team: Ferrari. The as the race goes on can put layout. It contains a wide
some drivers described the tyres. iconic circuits on the Formula track is characterised by an interesting spin on strategy. variety of fast and flowing
it as extremely bumpy. 1 calendar, characterised by very high speeds and heavy corners that place high lateral
Here, aerodynamics play a Hungarian Grand Prix extreme demands. It is the braking, putting a lot of Russian Grand Prix loads on the tyre but there
more important role than (4 August) track that puts the highest energy through the tyres, (29 September) are also some heavy braking
mechanical grip, due to a peak vertical load on the so the cars run the lowest areas and tighter corners.
high average speed. The tyres during the season, for downforce levels of the year. The first half of the lap is
circuit takes in a variety of example, in the famous Eau There are also a number of essentially a non-stop series
very high-speed corners Rouge to Raidillon section. high kerbs, which mean that of corners, which put plenty
with some slower and more The undulating surface at the tyres have to constantly of heat through the tyres with
complex sections. There Spa also means that the tyres absorb heavy structural no significant straights where
is always a risk of rain in work hard as part of the car’s impacts. Overall, this track Sochi is a medium-speed they can cool down.
Silverstone but when dry, Hungary is a twisty track suspension, placing heavy puts some of the highest circuit with a variety of
temperatures can be quite and the slowest permanent demands on the structure. speeds through the tyres different corners, including Mexican Grand Prix
high, meaning that a versatile circuit of the year, which On top of this, the weather that they will face all year. one left-hander that has (27 October)
compound choice is required does not make it any easier can be very changeable. been inspired by the long
for this track. on the tyres. This means Because the track is so long, Singapore Grand Prix triple apex Turn 8 at Istanbul
that much more heat is put it is not unusual for it to be (22 September) Park. In total there are 12
German Grand Prix through the tyres than on raining on one part of the right and six left-hand
(28 July) a fast and flowing layout circuit but dry in another. corners, with a 650-metre
because the tyres are moving Strategy can make a key straight between the first
around more: particularly difference here. and second turns. There has Mexico swaps places with
when it is hot, which is often been little track evolution the United States Grand Prix
the case here. Therefore, over the years and the this year, the only shake-up in
balancing the demands of Singapore is the season’s only surface is low-severity, as a the order of races compared
speed and durability is key race held completely at night, result of which the softest to 2018.The highlights of 8THE 2019 FORMULA 1 CIRCUITS AND THEIR CHARACTERISTICS
the Autodromo Hermanos changes of direction that are host the season end and
Rodriguez in Mexico City another key characteristic of possibly even the
include a very long pit the 5.513-kilometre Circuit title-decider. The track
straight and a huge stadium of the Americas. Weather is surface is generally smooth,
section in the last part of the often a factor, with hurricane so degradation is low. The
lap, converted from a former season in Texas. circuit provides a variety
baseball ground, which of speeds and corners, so
also hosts a unique podium Brazilian Grand Prix the tyres have to withstand
ceremony. At an altitude of (17 November) a wide range of different
2200 metres, the rarefied demands, but none of them
air could produce some of are particularly severe. As
the highest top speeds of the race starts late in the
the year. As well as low drag, afternoon and continues
there’s not much downforce into dusk, ambient and track
generated. Mechanical grip temperatures tend to fall
from the tyres is key, so Brazil is Pirelli’s biggest as the race goes on,
softer compounds are single-country market which alters the usual
often nominated. outside Italy, so this grand strategy calculations.
prix is always very busy for
United States Grand Prix us. The track is one of the
(3 November) shortest but also one of the
most challenging of the year.
There are some big elevation
changes and it can be
bumpy, which makes it hard
for the tyres to find traction
Now coming a week and increases the physical
after Mexico, the United demands on the drivers. The
States Grand Prix has track was resurfaced quite
already established itself recently, which had an effect
as a favourite of teams on wear and degradation.
and spectators. The track
contains a variety of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
elevations, plus some slow (1 December)
and technical sections
alternating with very fast
parts. It’s a good test of
a tyre’s all-round ability,
with traction demands
out of slow corners just as
important as lateral grip As has been the case in
through the high-speed recent years, Abu Dhabi will 9THE LIFE OF A COMPETITION TYRE
I
n Milan, the home of all the stresses to which the and a geometric check. A
Pirelli, around 150 research tyres are subjected. Once random sample of tyres is
engineers work exclusively various laboratory tests have additionally taken from
on Formula 1 – and many been concluded, the tyres each batch to check
more in other areas of then get to experience a structural integrity via a
motorsport. The starting real circuit. The tyres that destructive test.
points are the physics have successfully made it
and chemistry labs, where through the track tests are The tyre is then ready for
new compounds and then eligible to form part of dispatch to a race or test.
structures are tested. There the final selection offered to These exacting principles,
are about 100 elements teams for racing. used in Formula 1, are the
in each tyre and 18 same for other types of
structural components. Once the tyre is assembled competition tyre, seen in a
at the factory, the barcode wide variety of races and
At the motorsport factory – which acts as the tyre’s rallies all over the world.
in Romania (with a back-up ‘passport’ – is affixed to the
factory in Turkey), physical tyre. This contains all the
prototypes are built on relevant data about the tyre
the basis of the virtual and allows its usage to be
model, with the compounds tracked from production
produced at Pirelli’s Settimo to race.
Torinese plant in Italy. This
is when the theory gets The next step, the
turned into practice: the vulcanisation period during
compounds and structure which the tyre is ‘cooked’,
are tailor-made, and all the determines the definitive
components are finally characteristics of the
put together. compound and structure. It
also seals in the barcode.
The first physical tests
take place at Pirelli’s Finally, there is quality
experimental test centre in control, which takes in a
Milan, where sophisticated visual check, weight check
machines simulate every and an x-ray scan of the tyre.
race condition and measure There is also shearography
10THE BARCODE: EACH TYRE’S ‘PASSPORT’
P
irelli will once more in the United Kingdom. database that every engineer
bring around 1800 Once they arrive there, an works off allows the engineer
tyres to each grand FIA official receives a list of to see only information
prix in 2019. They are barcodes, which relate to the relating specifically to his or
allocated to the teams tyres that will be taken to her team over the weekend,
randomly with the help of a the next grand prix. The FIA so that individual strategies
barcode; a process carried then allocates barcodes – are not compromised.
out by the FIA, the sport’s and therefore tyres – to each Development data is
governing body. individual team at random. overseen by Pirelli’s senior
engineers, who monitor all
The tyres are manufactured Pirelli itself is not involved in the information in order to
at Pirelli’s state of the this process at all, meaning assist the research team in
art motorsport facilities that the Italian firm cannot charge of shaping the next
in Romania. During the influence which tyres are generation of tyres.
production process, allocated to which teams –
each tyre is allocated a although a rigorous quality
barcode provided by the control process ensures
FIA. This barcode is the that all the tyres leaving the
tyre’s ‘passport’, which factory are entirely identical.
is embedded firmly into
the structure during the Once at the circuit, the tyres
vulcanisation process and are then allocated to the
cannot be swapped. The teams in strict compliance
code contains all the details with the list that has been
of each tyre, making it previously prepared by the
traceable throughout the FIA. The barcodes allow
race weekend with Pirelli’s both the FIA and Pirelli to
RTS (Racing Tyre System) ensure that the right teams,
software, which can read according to the regulations,
and update all the data. are using the correct tyres.
For European events, the Each team is allocated a
tyres are then transported Pirelli engineer, who works
to Pirelli’s logistics and exclusively with that team
distribution hub at Didcot for all of the year, but the
11FORMULA 2 AND FORMULA 3
Formula 2 weekend, each car has five their 13-inch size, while in the future. The Formula 2
sets of slick tyres available. tyre regulations are also tyres are produced at Pirelli’s
P
irelli has been the These comprise three sets unchanged compared to cutting-edge competition
exclusive tyre supplier of the harder of the two 2018. The tyres are built tyre factory in Slatina,
to the FIA Formula 2 nominated compounds with a different philosophy Romania. Tyre research
Championship (previously and two sets of the softer to those in Formula 1 and and development is carried
known as GP2) since 2011 compound. Three sets of are designed to make sure out by specialists based
– the same year that the wet-weather tyres are also that the emphasis is always at Pirelli’s headquarters in
Italian firm returned to available for each car on high performance Milan, while the company’s
Formula 1. In 2017, GP2 if required. with a high level of motorsport logistics facility
became Formula 2. deliberate degradation. is located in Didcot, United made specifically for it. support of GP3 extended
Teams and drivers can use Kingdom. A dedicated team There will be three different beyond just providing tyres,
At each Formula 2 round, their tyre allocations as they Pirelli’s Formula 2 tyres are looks after the Formula 2 and compounds of P Zero slick and the same will be true in
Pirelli supplies two different wish, but each car must use designed to be extremely Formula 3 tyres, separate to tyre for Formula 3 – hard, Formula 3. The Italian firm
slick compounds from its both compounds of slick versatile, adapting well to the Formula 1 team, but using medium and soft – with one will continue to offer an
range, which is made up of a tyre during the feature race a variety of different track many of the lessons learned to be nominated for use at incentive of 200,000 Euros
total of four slick compounds (unless it is declared a wet temperatures, top speeds from the top category. each race weekend. There to this year’s Formula 3
with new colours for this race), just as is the case in and downforce levels, as well is also a single wet weather champion if they graduate to
year: P Zero White (hard), Formula 1 races. There is one as a wide range of lateral and Formula 3 tyre. At each race weekend, Formula 2 in 2020.
P Zero Yellow (medium), mandatory pit-stop during longitudinal loadings. They every driver receives four
P
P Zero Red (soft) and P this race when the teams are also adapted for use irelli will be the sets of slick tyres and two Pirelli has also been
Zero Purple (supersoft). In must change tyres. Pit-stops without tyre blankets, which exclusive tyre supplier sets of wet weather tyres. appointed as official tyre
addition, there is also a in the sprint race are optional. have always been prohibited for the new FIA Sometimes, one of the slick supplier to the Formula
wet-weather tyre, which The Formula 2 tyres remain in the series – and look set Formula 3 Championship. sets will be a ‘carryover’ set Regional European
has blue markings. At a race the same this year, including to be a feature of Formula 1 This takes the place of GP3, from the previous round. Championship. This new
which was supplied solely by A key consideration in the series bridges the gap
Pirelli for its duration from design of the new Formula 3 between Formula 4 – at
2010 until 2018. In fact, Pirelli car was to help create more the grass roots level of
entered GP3 one year before exciting races. motorsport – and the FIA
Formula 1. The new Formula Formula 3 Championship,
3 championship has a The same is true of the tyres, providing a natural route
brand-new car, revealed in which feature an element into grand prix weekends,
Abu Dhabi last year, which of deliberate degradation, as well as providing an
combines features of the similar to Formula 2. The organic ladder of talent that
old GP3 car with those of a tyres are also designed stretches all the way to
traditional F3 car, including to adapt well to a wide the top.
increased aerodynamics. variety of different track
Pirelli has been closely temperatures, top speeds
involved in the car’s and downforce levels, as well
development process and as a wide range of lateral and
has designed a range of tyres longitudinal loadings. Pirelli’s 12GT AND OTHER COMPETITIONS
P
irelli is active in endurance and sprint races. enabling promising talents
more than 220 car But there are a number of to come to the attention of
championships over different classes within manufacturers and progress
all five continents. These it depending on the their careers.
diverse programmes range driver’s category.
from open competition – Pirelli also continues to
with up to 20 manufacturers The sprint races will also support the Intercontinental
represented – to important now form part of the GT Challenge powered by
single-make trophies new Blancpain GT World Pirelli, another SRO initiative
featuring the world’s top Challenge, together with which this year expands to
marques such as the Ferrari the recently-established cover five events: one on
Challenge, Audi R8 LMS series in Asia and the North each continent. This takes
Cup and Lamborghini American championship that in the Spa 24 Hours as well
Super Trofeo. was formerly known as the as the Bathurst 12 Hours
Pirelli World Challenge, which and events at Laguna Seca, Germany, Italian GT Italy for the first time with supplies stock car series, the
GT racing makes up a large now also comes under the Suzuka and – new for this Championship, Australian the creation of the Ferrari biggest of which is Stock Car
proportion of Pirelli’s racing Blancpain banner. year – Kyalami in GT championship and Super Challenge UK. Brasil, which has featured
activities and provides the South Africa. Taikyu in Japan. several former F1 drivers
company with its biggest The partnership with The product supplied including Rubens Barrichello.
single event of the year: the SRO in the United States Pirelli has additionally The manufacturers by Pirelli for GT racing is The championship has a
Spa 24 Hours in Belgium, becomes even closer with equipped the FIA GT World represented in GT racing the P Zero slick, in DHD2 huge following throughout
the jewel in the crown of the the establishment of the Cup in Macau and the FIA include some of the world’s specification for the top South America, making it
Blancpain GT Series. Pirelli new Pirelli GT4 America GT Nations Cup, which had top marques, such as championships. This is a key motorsport activity
supplies more than 13,000 series. Using cars closer to its first edition in Bahrain Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, mostly used as a hard for Pirelli. In North America
tyres, all for GT3, to 65 showroom-specification, the at the end of 2018 and McLaren, Mercedes compound and is extremely Pirelli supports the Trans Am
competitors over the whole GT4 category has grown this year moves to Pirelli’s and Porsche. With both versatile despite the Series, and it’s not exactly a
event. If you thought that rapidly over recent seasons, home territory in Italy, at performance and durability diverse requirements of all GT championship, but Pirelli
the Formula 1 operation was with Pirelli also equipping the Vallelunga circuit near key to success in GT racing, the different circuits, race even supplies truck racing in
big, you should see what the SRO-promoted GT4 Rome. At national level, these competitions are a distances, manufacturers South America: undoubtedly
happens in GT… European Series. The the company’s supply perfect fit for the Italian tyre and vehicle architectures the biggest competition
GT4 class represents an agreements include the manufacturer. involved. For wet conditions, vehicles that the Italian
The main GT championships important part of Pirelli’s British GT Championship, there is also a grooved tyre manufacturer equips…
that Pirelli is involved in are focus on young drivers, ADAC GT Masters in The Ferrari Challenge and with a tread specifically
those promoted by SRO, Lamborghini Super Trofeo, designed to evacuate
starting with the Blancpain exclusively equipped by water in the most efficient
GT Series. This uses GT3 Pirelli, host championships way possible. Some of the
and GT4 cars: similar to on three different continents world’s best-known driving
the supercars seen on the (America, Europe and Asia) aces have used Pirelli’s GT
road, for which Pirelli also bringing truly global visibility racing products with plenty
supplies original equipment. to all the brands involved. of success, including Alex
In Europe, the successful This year Ferrari organises Zanardi, who has competed
Blancpain formula continues a one-make series in a in the Blancpain GT series 13
in 2019 featuring a mix of specific country other than with Pirelli. Pirelli alsoRALLY
P
irelli has a proud
history of success
in rallying, which
remains firmly rooted in
the company’s DNA. Pirelli
was present in the World
Rally Championship when it
began in 1973 and has since
claimed 25 titles. Last year,
the Italian firm returned to
the WRC, with a particular
focus on helping to develop
the next generation of
driving talent by exclusively
supplying the Junior World
Rally Championship.
Junior World Rally
Championship drivers
compete in identical cars.
For this year, a brand-new
turbocharged version demands, including for the The JWRC champion Pirelli exclusively supplies which is growing in
of the Ford Fiesta R2T tyres. As well as equipping receives a Ford Fiesta R5 to the ERC3 Junior category popularity. Following on
makes its debut, developed the Junior series, Pirelli also use in WRC2 the following (formerly Under 27) for R2 from its success with Italian
by M-Sport Poland and makes tyres for the WRC2 year, together with a Pirelli machinery, while the ERC1 champion Simone Faggioli,
equipped once more with championship: just one rung tyre package. The 2018 Junior category for R5 Pirelli has developed tyres
Pirelli tyres. below the headlining World champion Emil Bergkvist cars features open specifically suitable for
Rally Car class. will compete with Pirelli’s tyre competition. the varying conditions of
This year’s JWRC will be support in this year’s hillclimb competition. These
fought over five full events Pirelli supplies Sottozero Ice WRC2 championship. Historic rallying is another set a new record at the epic
within the WRC: Sweden, studded tyres for snow, P important part of Pirelli’s Pikes Peak hillclimb last year,
Corsica, Sardinia, Finland Zero tyres for asphalt and Pirelli’s commitment to programme, with success with Faggioli setting a new
and Wales. Covering snow, Scorpion tyres for gravel. supporting young rallying in many classes of the FIA best for a petrol-powered
asphalt and gravel, each of The P Zero and Scorpion talent is also evident European Historic Rally car. Other Pirelli rally stars
these events features vastly tyres are supplied in two in the European Rally Championship. Pirelli’s key include Valtteri Bottas, who
different characteristics and different compounds on Championship. The Italian product for historic rallying competed on the Arctic
each event, giving the company dominated the is the P7 Corsa Classic, Rally at the start of 2019,
drivers similar strategic series again in 2018, winning with the GM family of tyres and the VR46 team – which
options to those that are the title in every class. It has for gravel. An additional competes on the Monza
competing in the now claimed the outright form of closed-road Rally each year with a very
highest class. ERC title four years in a row. competition is hillclimbing, famous motorbike rider… 14FORMULA 4 AND OTHER REGIONAL SERIES
N
ot only does Championship will use the
Pirelli compete same Tatuus car and Alfa
at the pinnacle Romeo-derived Autotecnica
of motorsport under its engine as the Asian series,
exclusive tyre supply which is also seen in the
agreement with the new Formula W series,
FIA Formula 1 World aimed at women. The
Championship, it also Formula Regional European
supports young drivers championship is promoted
starting out in the sport, by WSK – a well-known
making it the perfect fit for karting promoter – and the
junior single-seater series Automobile Club d’Italia,
such as regional Formula 3 as is the case for the Italian
and Formula 4 worldwide. Formula 4 series, already
supplied by Pirelli. Another
The Formula Regional privately-promoted national
European Championship Formula 3 championship
has been created as the is supplied by Pirelli in the
FIA’s regional Formula 3 United Kingdom.
series for Europe. The move
follows similar series that Formula 4, at the entry
were launched last year in level, is a feeder category
America (also supplied by created by world
Pirelli) and Asia. motorsport’s governing
body, the FIA, which is
The recently-created run all over the world.
Formula Regional European Different engine, chassis and tyre manufacturers up through the ranks. Pirelli Formula 1 as well as Formula careers of future champions.
can be involved, with Pirelli is currently in agreement to 2 and Formula 3. In fact, some of the very
among the first to sign up: supply a number of different first laps ever driven by the
in line with the company’s Formula 4 championships all Formula 4 cars put out champions of tomorrow
philosophy of promoting over the world. around 185 horsepower, with might have already taken
young driving talent. a race weekend typically place on Pirelli tyres. Pirelli
The new Formula 4 tyres consisting of a 20-minute is proud to supply Fernando
The idea behind the have been developed qualifying session and three Alonso’s karting school,
championship is to provide specifically for junior 20-minute races. Italy was which teaches children to
an affordable bridge single-seater racing by the pioneering nation in drive not long after they
between karting and Pirelli engineers in Milan introducing Formula 4, with can walk…
single-seaters, in order to and incorporate learning Pirelli involved from the very
bring more young drivers from Pirelli’s participation in beginning to help boost the 15FROM RACETRACK TO ROAD
T
echnology, safety, automotive market is the
ecology and a sporting result of a strategy based
philosophy is what on the ‘perfect fit’. This
unites the Pirelli P Zero tyres means that every tyre is
seen on the race track with individually created for each
those driven by ordinary car, designed and produced
motorists on the road. using dedicated technologies,
processes and materials.
Both racing cars and
road-going sports cars are By tailoring these
guaranteed performance elements according to the
and reliability thanks to the requirements of each car
P Zero range of Ultra High manufacturer’s engineers
Performance tyres. Pirelli at the design phase, Pirelli
is a world leader in the is able to develop tyres
automotive industry and has specifically conceived for
an exclusive relationship with different models. To denote
an ample variety of racing this, the tyres carry special
series worldwide, including markings on the sidewall to
Formula 1. This experience symbolise the fact that they
filters straight down to road have been tailor-made
car tyres. by Pirelli.
Pirelli is the absolute world In line with this client-centred
leader in the prestige and philosophy, Pirelli has added
premium segment, claiming another important element
more than 50% of the market. to its prestige offering by
Luxury cars and sports opening four branches of P concept of a tyre dealership. Other links with the world in motorsport. These are
cars are the two of the Zero World, in Los Angeles, Both in Formula 1 and on of motorsport include the just a few examples of how
fastest-growing sectors Munich, Monaco and most the road, Pirelli is all about Pirelli Color Edition and Pirelli competition benefits every
in today’s global recently – at the start of this unprecedented levels of Connesso. The Color Edition tyre in Pirelli’s range: from
automotive market. year – Dubai. These are the performance. Last year, offers everyday drivers the the track-derived P Zero, to
first of a series of innovative the Italian firm smashed chance to personalise their the eco-friendly P1.
Pirelli’s leadership in the tyre boutiques aimed at the production car lap cars with coloured tyre
very upper echelons of the drivers of prestige and record for the Nurburgring sidewalls, similar to those
luxury cars. This exclusive Nordschleife, after a Pirelli- seen in Formula 1. Connesso,
network, which will act as equipped Lamborghini meanwhile, equips each
an ambassador for the Pirelli Aventador SVJ lapped the tyre into a highly-advanced
brand in cities with a high 20.8-kilometre circuit in sensor, able to deliver data in
number of prestige cars, 6m44.97s, courtesy of Italian real time via an app: a bit like
radically redefines the whole GT3 driver Marco Mapelli. the telemetry feeds seen 16RACE TYRE SYSTEM: PIRELLI’S UNIQUE DATABASE
P
irelli has developed set-up and other telemetry
a new integrated recorded by the teams and
computer system to sent to the central server.
collect data during tests The accumulated data is
and races. The Racing always available for Pirelli’s
Tyre System (RTS) is the development engineers to
only one of its kind and consult in real time from the
unprecedented in Formula 1, track. The latest evolutions
thanks to its comprehensive on the RTS enable tyre
functionality that keeps analysis over a single sector
Pirelli’s engineers constantly and split times, in order to
in touch with the cars, provide a complete picture
the teams and Formula of the performance of a tyre
One Management (FOM) during each phase of the lap.
personnel. It’s also being This also makes it possible
rolled out across the GT to compile and send final
racing programme as well. reports to each team in
real time, as well as to
This unique platform, Pirelli’s Research and
designed by Pirelli’s Development division.
Information Technology
division in Milan, allows This data will also be used
engineers to monitor the to provide tyre information
performance, wear and that can be publicly
evolution of each tyre screened on television,
when it is out on track. In enhancing the enjoyment
particular, Pirelli’s RTS tracks and understanding of the
details of the electronic race for fans. Recently,
‘passport’ (which is a unique the Formula 1 promoter
barcode label cooked into The bespoke system links one of the tyres during on a wheel, the RTS collects the car sends telemetry has made extensive use
the tyre at production) that the cars, the computer each test session and race. all the information about data used that can be used of Pirelli’s data to provide
belongs to each tyre and screens of the Formula 1 The central server also the fitting phase and tyre to help calculate wear and more on-screen graphics
updates it in real time, from teams’ engineers’ and a stores information about pressure when the tyre degradation, which is all about tyre usage, both on
construction to recycling. tablet carried by each of the production process is first fitted to the rim. recorded on the tablets television and via the F1 app.
Pirelli’s tyre engineers to and quality control of every Other information stored of the Pirelli engineers. To
both a local server and tyre, certifying its identity includes the weight needed maintain confidentiality, each
a central server based in and providing relevant data for balancing the tyre, as engineer can only see data
Pirelli’s Milan headquarters. about its characteristics. well as the dimensions and relating to his or her own
This server is updated with Once the tyre has reached weight of the tyre when first assigned team. This data
information about every the circuit and is mounted fitted. When out on track, is correlated with the car 17PIRELLI AND MOTORSPORT MARKETING
M
arketing is all about are open to everyone. Pirelli via a social media vote. renowned for its food – and
making the most of also instituted a Pole Position Fan festivals have also the company creating a
Pirelli’s presence in prize last year that continues become a regular part of recipe book and even a
motorsport: an investment into 2019, where the poleman the Formula 1 landscape, cookery competition. Art is
not only in technology but is given a specially-engraved with demonstrations taking another interest, with tyres
also in the company’s image tyre. In Japan, the fans part across major cities in having been used to create
as being synonymous with the world, including Milan a painting before, and yet
style, performance, and a – where Pirelli was able to another artwork auctioned
top-end lifestyle. celebrate the company’s in aid of Sir Jackie Stewart’s
home grand prix. Race Against Dementia
Consequently, a number of charity. Drama is another
different activities have been With more and unprecedented aspect, with the winner’s
put into place to ensure that tyre data and predicted trophy for the United
everyone knows about what strategies being given away States Grand Prix being will be two more grands prix
Pirelli does in motorsport to media and fans, there has spectacularly parachuted with Pirelli as title sponsor.
– and better still, can never been more information in before the start.
experience it for themselves flowing from Formula 1’s Pirelli is all about passion,
to some extent. tyre supplier to the wider As well as being a tyre expertise, and pioneering:
world, taking in activities that supplier, Pirelli is also a bringing a kaleidoscope of
One of the most dynamic reach far beyond the making championship sponsor, with colours and fresh thinking
ways that this happens is are well-known for their of tyres. These include the grands prix in France to what a tyre supplier’s
via the F1 Pirelli Hot Laps elaborate costumes, so a gastronomy – with Pirelli’s and the United States role should be all about. As
programme. New for 2018, competition was held where carbon black motorhome being backed by the Italian always, we’d love to hear
this allowed some lucky the best-dressed fan would tyre firm. This year, there your thoughts and ideas.
people to be driven round get the chance to hand over
the tracks in a supercar by this award. And even when it
a racing driver during the comes to naming tyres, the
weekend of selected grands fans were able to
prix. The drivers were of the get involved
calibre of Lewis Hamilton and
Max Verstappen, to name
just two examples, and the
supercars were supplied by
AMG-Mercedes, Aston Martin
and McLaren, all running on
P Zero tyres.
The experience was second
to none. But while not
everyone is lucky enough
to enjoy a hot lap, there are
other Pirelli fan initiatives that 18You can also read
