There is great dissatisfaction among Formula 1 drivers about the tires that Pirelli has developed for 2021. Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, among others, do not understand the manufacturer’s choices.
Pirelli stuck to the 2018 tire again this year and decided it is time for a renewal next year. The drivers drove a number of laps on Friday in the first two practices for the Bahrain Grand Prix with the new tires, which are wider and heavier.
“Pirelli has had two years to develop a better tire. We now have a tire that is three kilos heavier and one second slower per lap,” Hamilton said after practice at the Bahrain International Circuit.
“I know it makes no difference to the fans, but we are working with top technology and are going downhill after two years of development. The tires don’t feel right. If this is the best they have to offer, I’d rather stick with the old one tires drive. “
Ferrari driver Vettel agreed with Hamilton. “This is certainly not an improvement,” he said. “I hope we don’t see these tires again, because they are much worse than the tires we now race on.”
Pirelli does not intend to reverse decision
Despite the fierce criticism from the drivers, Pirelli plans to continue the introduction of the new tires. Pirelli boss Mario Isola is partly surprised by the negative reactions.
“We introduced the tire in consultation with the teams and the FIA, gave our reasons and received support. And the teams have the opportunity to collect data,” the Italian said. Motorsport.com.
“So I don’t think there is any reason to go back to the old tire. There is always discussion when we introduce something new. There is a kind of natural resistance to change in Formula 1. That’s part of the game.”
The third free practice session in Bahrain is scheduled for Saturday at 12:00 noon, during which the new prototype will not be used. Qualifying follows at 3 p.m. The race is on Sunday at 3.10 p.m.
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