Pirelli Rolls Out Significant Formula 1 Overhaul on the Cusp of 2026 Campaign
With the 2026 season nearly upon us, Pirelli has unveiled a substantial modification to its F1 tyre specifications that will take effect just days before the championship's first race. The Italian manufacturer's announcement marks a notable shift in the sport's technical landscape as teams prepare for the new campaign.
As Formula 1 enters the final countdown to its 2026 championship opener, Pirelli has unveiled a major transformation in its tyre regulations set to roll out a mere seven days before the season commences.
The announcement from the sport's official tyre supplier represents a significant development in the technical framework governing this year's competition. Teams and drivers will need to adapt their preparation strategies as they head into the opening round with these newly implemented specifications.
The timing of Pirelli's revelation adds an additional layer of complexity to the already demanding pre-season preparations, with competitors having minimal time to adjust their testing programmes and data analysis around the modified tyre characteristics.
This substantial change underscores the ongoing evolution of Formula 1's technical regulations and demonstrates Pirelli's role in shaping the competitive environment for the 2026 season.
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Related Regulations
Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.
Full Regulation Text
Article 9.1
Tyre Specifications
Chapter: Chapter IX - Tyres
In Simple Terms
Pirelli is F1's sole tyre supplier. Each driver gets a fixed allocation per weekend: typically 13 sets of slicks (across soft, medium, hard), plus wet weather tyres. Teams must strategically use their allocation across practice, qualifying, and the race.
- Pirelli is sole official supplier
- Fixed allocation per weekend
- Three dry compounds: soft, medium, hard
- Intermediate and wet also provided
Official FIA Text
Only tyres supplied by the official tyre supplier may be used. During a race weekend, each driver is allocated a specified number of dry weather tyre sets comprising soft, medium and hard compounds, plus intermediate and wet weather tyres.
Article B6.2.2
Complete set of tyres definition
Chapter: B6
In Simple Terms
A complete set of tyres means all four tyres on a car (two front, two rear) must be the same type and specification. You can't mix different tyre compounds or specifications on your car.
- Must have exactly 2 front tyres and 2 rear tyres
- All four tyres must be identical in specification
- Mixing different tyre types or compounds is not allowed
- Applies to all tyre changes during a race or qualifying session
Official FIA Text
A complete set of tyres comprises two front and two rear tyres all of which must be of the same specification.
Article B6.1.3
Conditions of Supply
Chapter: B6
In Simple Terms
F1 teams must use their tyres exactly as the FIA and tyre supplier instruct. Tyres can only be used on the specific car they were made for, except during testing at certain high-grade circuits or for special manufacturer testing approved by the FIA.
- Tyres must be used according to FIA and Tyre Supplier instructions
- Tyres are car-specific and cannot be swapped between vehicles without authorization
- Limited exceptions exist for testing on FIA Grade 1/1T circuits and manufacturer proof testing
- Misuse of tyres can result in serious penalties
Official FIA Text
All tyres must be operated in accordance with prescriptions issued by the FIA and Tyre Supplier. Tyres may not be used on any rig, simulator or vehicle other than the Car for which they were intended, except on FIA Grade 1 or 1T Circuits or for specific manufacturer proof testing purposes.
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