Pirelli tightens supervision after tyre damage in Qatar

Increased surveillance following discovery of cuts

Pirelli introduced additional checks after the first day at Lusail. During Friday's practice sessions, deep cuts were found in several tyres. Inspections showed that the damage occurred on tyres on all four corners. There were no immediate tyre failures, but the supplier is on alert.

New gravel strips appear to be the cause

This problem is related to new and extended gravel strips on the circuit. Strips have been added at turns 6, 10 and 16. The strip at turn 14 has been extended and now starts earlier. Cars that drift wide drag loose gravel onto the asphalt. That gravel ends up on the track and on the kerbstones.

Gravel is sharp and penetrates more easily.

Pirelli's chief engineer Simone Berra says that the gravel is relatively sharp. It is not rounded off. As a result, it tends to cut into the rubber. Some sets were damaged down to the tyre structure, but the cords remained intact. If the structure is continuously exposed, a puncture may occur.

Consequences for sprint and race

Pirelli and the FIA are monitoring the situation closely. If further damage occurs, they can intervene immediately. Possible measures include deploying a safety car or even a red flag to remove the gravel. For now, there is no immediate cause for panic, but the warning remains in place.

Additional complication: limit on tyre usage

Tyre life is already limited in this race. Pirelli is applying a maximum of 25 laps per set of tyres this weekend. That makes strategies sensitive. Teams now have to take into account both wear and tear and the risk of cuts from gravel.

Key points

• Deep cuts in tyres discovered after Friday practice sessions at Lusail.
• Cuts occurred on tyres at all four corners.
• New/extended gravel strips at turns 6, 10, 14 and 16.
• Gravel is sharp and not rounded, making it easier to cut.
• Pirelli and FIA keep traffic and track clear; measures possible (safety car/red flag).
• A maximum of 25 laps per set of tyres this weekend increases the pressure on teams.

In summary: Pirelli is increasing vigilance. Teams must adjust their strategies. The FIA may actively intervene if the gravel continues to cause problems. For the time being, there are no immediate tyre failures, but the risk remains during sprints and races.