Pirelli: Spa always has surprises in store

If the Hungaroring and Spa-Francorchamps circuits do not have any great similarities, the Hungarian track being winding while the Belgian circuit is very fast, Pirelli has opted for the same tire choices by selecting medium and soft compounds. for both tests. The supplier of the F1 did not want to take any risks, remembering that the route of the Belgian Ardennes can be harsh with its products. Its engineers predict a difference of 1”8 to 2 seconds per lap between the two types of rubber.

“The tires are under heavy stress, but the temperatures often remain cool. Soft and medium tires therefore represent the best compromise between performance and lifespan. explained Paul Hembery, Pirelli sporting director. “Spa is a race where anything can happen. The chances of the safety car entering are high and the weather is variable. Teams must be able to constantly read the race and react quickly to opportunities that present themselves. »

Daniel Ricciardo, the last winner of the Belgian GP, ​​had carried out a two-stop strategy by starting from 5th position on the grid. The pilot Red Bull had completed his first two stints on soft tires and the last on mediums, stopping on the 11th and 26th laps.