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F1 could be set to take a sharp turn away from the era of Pirelli's heavily degrading tyres. A few days ago, GPDA director Alex Wurz revealed that formula one drivers are calling upon a return to "maximum attack" racing. And the BBC quoted a source as saying: "To a man, the drivers say 'We are driving far below our own personal limits - and those of the cars - because of the tyres. It's not fun and we don't like it'."
In response, Pirelli defended its current tyres on the basis that it only does "what F1 asks us to do". "If we have to produce tyres with degradation, we focus on that," said racing manager Mario Isola. "If we have to produce long-lasting tyres, we focus on that." The heavy-degradation era was prompted and has always been staunchly defended by Bernie Ecclestone, on the basis that it is good for the 'show'.
Pirelli pushes for debate over two mandatory pit stops: a lifeline for dull races
But the F1 supremo may now be willing to re-think that approach, agreeing "a million per cent" with the drivers that the sport should be about maximum attack. "I have already told Pirelli that," the 85-year-old added. And he confirmed that a meeting at Pirelli's Milan headquarters early next week will be held. "Whatever drivers want to turn up can turn up," said Ecclestone. "It will be the president of Pirelli who is there, not a messenger." (GMM)
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Replies (2)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Sounds like a good idea. I have actually not liked this era tyrewise very much. Doesnt make any sense to limit drivers to what the tyres can survive, and tyres will degrade either way. Besides, F1 aim to make things applicable to the road, and fast-degrading tyres are not applicable in any way.
khasmir
Posts: 893
"It will be the president of Pirelli who is there, not a messenger." Is he referring to Hembery and Isola? Those are the guys to talk to, not some president who doesn't have a clue about the technical details.
I have to agree that Pirelli has done what F1 asked them to do and of course Pirelli will not be very keen to totally turn things around now. But I'm sure they will do it if that is what F1 wants. And I could only support this, more mechanical grip and less aero. Always on the limit of car and driver.