Speed ​​of understanding Pirelli tires essential according to M-Sport

The refrain is the same every year: the choice of tires should constitute an essential element in hoping to aim for the leading roles on the roads of the Rally Montecarlo.

With a major nuance in 2021: the change of manufacturer following the call for tenders won by Pirelli from this season, the Milanese entity coming to replace Michelin, partner of the WRC for several years.

A return for the Transalpines, mainly focused on the F1 and GT in recent years, and will offer a new element for drivers and teams to understand. Even more so on terrain around Gap where snow and ice remained present during reconnaissance.

“We had a lot of information from Michelin over the last four years, where we took the data, and that helped us make decisions, indique à ce sujet Richard Millener, Team Principal de M-Sport Ford.

We don't have that this year, except the data collected during the four days of testing. Much of the outcome of the weekend will come from understanding and appreciating over a short period of time how the tire works.

We will undoubtedly make choices about which we are not 100% certain, such as the balance between a soft or a super-soft, or even between a snow tire and a super-soft. Nails are more obvious if there is ice. On the other compounds, the main point will focus on durability over long runs. »

If the drivers were able to try Pirelli tires during the preparation tests for the Monte-Carlo Rally, they will still need a little driving time before finding the right formula.

“Of course, the tires play a big role in this event, especially since it is a somewhat unknown aspect at the moment, recognizes Teemu Suninen. Last year, I was able to set some good times, but without managing to put everything together.

In 2021, I will try to maintain the pace and be at my best without making any mistakes. This is the method to achieve a good result here. »