Pirelli banking on 2 or 3 stops at the Canadian GP

If tire wear was not too significant at the Monaco Grand Prix, the Montreal circuit which hosts the F1 this week will be more abrasive for the rubbers. Pirelli has opted for a more conservative choice than last year by bringing the mediums and super softs whose characteristics correspond to low temperatures. It will also be an opportunity for the drivers to test two sets of medium prototype tires which should be used for the rest of the season if the teams are unanimous. With the data collected last year, the F1 supplier believes it will achieve its objective of a race completed in two or three stops. “We expect two or three stops in the race per car but we will only be able to make precise forecasts at the end of the day on Friday, after driving on the track. This is a circuit where weather conditions often play a crucial role?, comments Paul Hembery, Pirelli sporting director.

The Mercedes will be studied closely at a time when the private testing affair is shaking up the F1 paddock. If the Silver Arrows were considered candidates for victory in the streets of the Principality, the level of degradation of their tires could be compared with that observed in Barcelona. However, the uncertain weather and the frequent exits of the safety car increase the opportunities in the peloton, which will force the teams to prepare for all kinds of unforeseen events. “Due to the significant level of wear and degradation, we expect to see different strategies at work, like last year, with teams deciding to opt for a 'sprint' strategy, or to do less ?stops with emphasis on endurance », continues Paul Hembery. “Last year, it was the “sprint” approach that paid off (with the victory of Lewis Hamilton), but with so many parameters at play, teams will have to analyze the data - not to mention the weather - very carefully before committing to any tactic. A flexible approach often works best in Canada and we can expect many teams to keep options to allow drivers to really make a difference when it matters.