F1 GP Qatar | Pirelli imposes 25-lap limit per set, double pit-stop returns
Qatar, Pirelli introduces the 25-lap limit for each tire set: at least two mandatory stops for teams as happened on the Monte-Carlo circuit.
For the Qatar GP, a new limitation will come into effect on the maximum number of laps that can be covered by each tire set during the entire weekend. The measure, defined by Pirelli in agreement with FIA and Formula 1 and shared in periodic meetings with the teams, was made official through the traditional technical document sent two weeks before each race.
F1 Qatar GP, 25 Laps per Set and Double Pit-Stop Imposed
The decision comes a few days after the F1 Commission meeting and, according to the prescription, each Pirelli tire set can be used for a maximum of 25 laps on the Losail circuit, considered among the most severe for lateral forces, thermal loads and tread wear. The count will include all official laps, including those under neutralization, while reconnaissance laps, formation laps and those after the checkered flag of Sprint and race will be excluded.
With a GP structured over 57 laps, the new mileage ceiling will make at least two pit stops inevitable for each driver. Pirelli will communicate to the teams, before the race, the number of remaining laps available for each tire set.
The choice stems from analyses conducted on tires used in 2024. Last season, in fact, numerous sets, particularly on the front left, had reached limit wear levels, with a consequent increase in structural stress due to the high lateral forces of Losail. Additionally, in managing degradation, some teams had tried to extend stints beyond the actual useful life of the tire to contain the number of stops, further increasing the risk.
A similar precautionary measure had already been adopted in 2023, albeit for different causes: the micro-tears caused by the pyramidal curbs, which were then smoothed and flanked by gravel strips to prevent the problem from recurring.
For the Qatar weekend, the hardest compounds in the Pirelli range will be used: C1 Hard, C2 Medium and C3 Soft. Being a Sprint event, each driver will have 2 sets of Hard, 4 Medium and 6 Soft available.
