F1 Tyres Explained 2024

Since Pirelli's return to Formula 1 in 2011, their F1 tyres have played a pivotal role in shaping the strategies and outcomes of races.

For the 2024 season, there have not been too many changes to the F1 tyres landscape – but there are some slight notable adjustments around compounds.

Previous Formula 1 Tyres

Despite Pirelli tyres being the currently exclusive supplier of tyres to F1, there have been several tyre brands involved over the years. These include:

• Avon tyres from 1954 to 1982.
• Dunlop tyres from 1950 to 1977.
• Firestone tyres from 1950 to 1974.
• Goodyear tyres from 1965 to 1998.
• Michelin tyres from 1977 to 1984 and then again from 2001 to 2006.
• Bridgestone tyres from 2007 to 2010.

Pirelli's Journey: Continuation of Innovation

Pirelli has consistently evolved its tyre offerings to align with the technical advancements and regulatory changes in Formula 1.

In 2024, Pirelli simplifies its range to five slick compounds, refining the spectrum to better suit the teams' and sport's requirements.

Tyre Compounds and Selection

For 2024, the assortment of compounds has been streamlined.

Teams have access to 13 sets of tyres per weekend, with a selection mix available between eight softs, three mediums, and two hards.

This refined approach aims to enhance the strategic elements of tyre management, allowing teams to tailor their selections more closely to each circuit's unique challenges.

Each weekend, Pirelli designates three of these compounds for use, based on track characteristics and expected performance demands.

The availability of this trio of options ensures teams must adeptly navigate their tyre strategy to excel, from the high-wear softs, marked in red, through to the durable hards, identified by their white walls??.

Regulatory Tweaks and Technical Adjustments

The 2024 season introduces minor regulatory tweaks regarding tyre usage, especially in wet conditions.

The rules mandate the use of two different tyre types during the race, a regulation that flexibly adjusts for wet weather scenarios.

In addition to the slick options, drivers also have at their disposal four sets of intermediate and three sets of rain tyres, catering to varying degrees of wet track conditions?.

The Road to Sustainable Racing: Tyre Blankets and Beyond

A significant focus for Pirelli and F1 has been the move towards sustainability, illustrated by the ongoing debate around tyre blankets.

While initially aiming to phase them out by 2025, concerns regarding safety and performance have led to a cautious approach, with their temperature now reduced from 100 degrees Celsius to 70.

The dialogue surrounding tyre blankets underscores the sport's commitment to environmental considerations, balancing these against the paramount importance of driver safety and competitive integrity??.

Looking Ahead: The Impact on Strategy and Performance

The 2024 tyre regulations, while evolutionary rather than revolutionary, underscore F1's continuous drive for innovation, safety, and sustainability.

The adjustments in tyre compound availability, coupled with the strategic depth added by the nuanced rules on tyre selection and usage, promise to keep teams and drivers on their toes, adapting to each race's unique demands.

As the season progresses, the effectiveness of these regulations will become clearer, influencing strategies and potentially race outcomes.

Pirelli's ongoing development efforts, especially in the context of the tyre blanket debate and sustainability goals, highlight the sport's dynamic nature—where technical excellence and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

For teams and fans alike, the 2024 tyre regulations represent another chapter in Formula 1's relentless pursuit of speed, safety, and now, sustainability, shaping the strategies that will define this racing season.