The new F1 regulations are approaching and most teams have already started preparations for the big change of cars that will come 2026. Young people enginesnews chassis and aerodynamics elements, with the FIA to aim at reduction of total weight by 50 kg.
Considerations of adoption were also part of this effort smaller diameter tireswhich would be located between 13 and 18 incheswho came the 2022. This proposal was opposed by Pirelliwith the tire maker claiming it would require massive changes in evolutionary processes itself, but would also create additional difficulties Byrioups.
The regulations of 2026 have not been finalized yet, however it is said that the F1 will maintain them 18 inch wheelsslightly reshaping the shape and them dimensions of the tires.
“We are getting close to the final decision on tire size,” revealed the Mario Islandits director Pirelli in F1speaking to Autosport. “Obviously when you design the wheels you have to consider the whole package, the brakes, the rims, the suspension, the tires, so I think we're close to the final size.
“The conversation is between 16 and 18 inches. And our preference is to stick to 18-inch tires. And I think there are good reasons to stay at that size, with smaller tires but the same rims. That's what we're talking about, a slightly smaller diameter, a shorter profile and a slightly narrower tire.”
THE Isola also clarified that the weight difference from 18 to 16 inches it's not that dramatic after all:
“One factor is weight. And obviously this affects the whole package, including the wheels. The difference between 16 and 18 inches with the narrower 18 inch tires isn't huge. So the weight factor is there.
“But it is not the only factor. There is also that of performance. Because obviously if we go to 16-inch tires, which are much smaller, there is a greater risk of them overheating. A smaller diameter means that the heat is distributed differently.
“So there are many factors to consider if we want to design a tire that keeps up with drivers' expectations. For performance, 18-inch tires are better than 16-inch tires.”
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