The Complete Guide to Formula 1 Tyre Specifications for 2026
As the 2026 season approaches, understanding the tyre compounds and their specifications becomes essential for fans following the championship. Our expert team breaks down the technical details and varieties of tyres that will feature throughout the season.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, many enthusiasts find themselves curious about the technical specifications governing tyre selection in Formula 1. To help clarify this crucial aspect of modern grand prix racing, our Ask Me Anything team has compiled a comprehensive overview of the various tyre types that will be in use throughout the campaign.
The tyre selection process represents a fundamental element of F1 strategy, directly impacting performance, pit stop decisions, and overall race outcomes. Each tyre variant carries distinct characteristics regarding grip levels, durability, and optimal operating temperatures, making the choice of compound a pivotal decision for teams navigating the challenges of the 2026 season.
Our experts delve into the specific categories and classifications of tyres available to competitors, examining how each type functions under different track conditions and driving pressures. Whether exploring the characteristics of different compounds or understanding how weather patterns influence tyre strategy, this breakdown provides valuable insight into one of motorsport's most critical technical specifications.
For fans seeking to deepen their understanding of F1 mechanics and strategy, comprehending the nuances of tyre technology offers a window into the sophisticated decision-making that separates competitive performances from championship-winning campaigns in 2026.
Original source
BBC Sport F1
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 B6.1.1
Supply Of Tyres
Chapter: B6
In Simple Terms
F1 has one official tyre supplier who must make three different types of dry-weather tyres, plus intermediate and wet-weather tyres available to all teams. Each tyre type looks visibly different so everyone knows which compound is being used. Sometimes extra experimental tyres are tested during races.
- Single tyre manufacturer provides all tyres for the season
- Three dry-weather tyre specifications must be available (soft, medium, hard compounds)
- One intermediate and one wet-weather tyre specification each
- All tyre types must be visibly distinguishable from one another
Official FIA Text
The single tyre manufacturer must provide three specifications of dry-weather tyre, one specification of intermediate tyre, and one specification of wet-weather tyre, each visibly distinguishable. Additional tyre specifications may be made available for In-Competition Tyre Evaluation and In-Competition Tyre Testing at certain Competitions.
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.
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