Pirelli’s 2026 Formula 1 tire development program took a significant step forward with a two-day test at Fiorano on May 27-28, 2025, where Mercedes’ Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Racing Bulls’ Yuki Tsunoda completed nearly 300 laps to evaluate prototype hard compound tires. The test, part of Pirelli’s preparation for the 2026 regulations, focused on durability and performance for the new, lighter, and more agile F1 cars. Conducted under sunny conditions, the session provided valuable data for Pirelli’s engineers as they refine compounds for the upcoming season. This article explores the test details, driver contributions, and implications for F1’s future, drawing on insights from it.motorsport.com and fan reactions.
The Fiorano Test: Setup and Objectives
Pirelli’s test at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit aimed to assess prototype hard compound tires designed for the 2026 F1 season, which will introduce cars with reduced weight (minimum 768 kg), smaller dimensions, and a 30% downforce reduction. The hard compound, expected to be a cornerstone of Pirelli’s 2026 range, prioritizes durability for high-temperature races and circuits with heavy tire wear, such as Spa or Silverstone. The test used modified 2024 cars—Mercedes’ W15 for Antonelli and Racing Bulls’ VCARB 01 for Tsunoda—adapted to mimic 2026 aerodynamic and weight characteristics.
Antonelli drove on May 27, completing 148 laps (approximately 435 km), while Tsunoda took over on May 28, logging 149 laps (438 km). The sunny weather, with track temperatures around 30°C, provided ideal conditions to stress-test the tires’ longevity and consistency. Pirelli’s chief engineer, Mario Isola, noted, “The hard compound showed promising durability, crucial for the new cars’ demands,” per it.motorsport.com. The test focused on gathering baseline data, with no soft or medium compounds evaluated, signaling Pirelli’s emphasis on a robust C1-equivalent tire for 2026.
Driver Contributions: Antonelli and Tsunoda Shine
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes’ 18-year-old rookie, impressed in his first official Pirelli test, leveraging his Fiorano experience from Ferrari’s Driver Academy days. His feedback on tire behavior, particularly grip degradation over long stints, was “invaluable,” according to Isola. Antonelli’s 148 laps included short qualifying-style runs and extended race simulations, helping Pirelli assess the hard tire’s performance across scenarios. “It’s exciting to contribute to 2026 tires,” Antonelli said. “The hard compound felt stable, but there’s work to do on initial grip.”
Yuki Tsunoda, Racing Bulls’ lead driver, brought his experience from five F1 seasons, completing 149 laps with a focus on race-pace consistency. His input on tire wear under varying fuel loads aided Pirelli’s understanding of the compound’s durability for heavier 2026 cars, which will retain current power units but lose some hybrid complexity. Tsunoda noted, “The tires held up well, but we need to balance grip and longevity for tracks like Monaco.” X posts praised the duo’s efforts, with @F1GuyDan saying, “Antonelli and Tsunoda putting in work for 2026—future looks bright!”
Context: Pirelli’s 2026 Tire Program
The 2026 F1 regulations aim to improve racing by reducing car weight, drag, and downforce while maintaining hybrid power units. Pirelli’s tire development aligns with these changes, targeting 18-inch tires with a slightly reduced diameter (710 mm from 720 mm) and narrower width (355 mm front, 380 mm rear) to complement the lighter chassis. The hard compound tested at Fiorano is part of a five-compound range (C1 to C5), with the C1 hard designed for high-energy circuits and the C5 soft for low-grip tracks like Monaco.
Pirelli’s 2025 test schedule includes 25 sessions across circuits like Mugello, Paul Ricard, and Suzuka, with Fiorano’s tight layout ideal for early hard tire evaluation. The program builds on 2024 tests, where McLaren and Ferrari tested slick and wet compounds. Isola emphasized, “2026 cars will be faster in corners but less draggy on straights. Our tires must deliver consistency without overheating.” The Fiorano data will inform refinements before a planned mule car test in September 2025, using fully 2026-spec chassis.
Implications for 2026 and Beyond
The Fiorano test underscores Pirelli’s proactive approach to 2026, ensuring tires match the new cars’ dynamics. The hard compound’s durability is critical, as lighter cars with less downforce will rely more on mechanical grip, increasing tire stress. Antonelli’s and Tsunoda’s feedback will shape the C1’s final specification, potentially reducing the need for conservative race strategies seen in 2025, like Monaco’s two-stop rule. X user @AutoSpies noted, “Pirelli’s hard tire could make 2026 races less tactical, more about raw pace.”
The test also highlights young talent’s role in F1’s future. Antonelli, tipped as a Mercedes star, gained crucial experience, while Tsunoda’s reliability strengthens Racing Bulls’ Red Bull-backed project. However, challenges remain: Pirelli must balance grip and durability across compounds, and the 2026 cars’ reduced downforce could expose tire weaknesses on high-speed tracks. Fan sentiment on X is optimistic, with @f1naija saying, “300 laps at Fiorano? Pirelli’s serious about 2026 tires!”
Broader F1 Context
The 2025 season, with McLaren leading the constructors’ championship and Verstappen holding a 23-point drivers’ lead post-Monaco, sets the stage for 2026’s overhaul. Monaco’s controversial two-stop rule, criticized by drivers like George Russell and Carlos Sainz, exposed tire strategy flaws, pushing Pirelli to prioritize versatility. Red Bull’s strategic win in Monaco, choosing hard tires over softs, contrasts with Pirelli’s test focus on durability, suggesting 2026 tires could favor bolder race plans.
Mercedes’ and Racing Bulls’ involvement in the test reflects F1’s collaborative spirit, with teams sharing data to improve the sport. Antonelli’s test aligns with Mercedes’ 2026 preparations, while Tsunoda’s role supports Red Bull’s engine program. The FIA’s upcoming wing regulations, debuting in Spain 2025, may influence tire loads, making Pirelli’s early testing critical.
Challenges and Criticisms
Pirelli faces pressure to deliver tires that enhance racing, as 2025’s Monaco tactics frustrated fans. The hard compound’s initial grip, flagged by Antonelli, needs improvement to avoid sluggish qualifying laps. Tsunoda’s call for track-specific balance highlights the challenge of creating a universal C1 tire. X post @Cl16__FanpageFr warned, “If Pirelli’s 2026 hards are too conservative, we’ll get boring races again.” Additionally, testing modified 2024 cars may not fully replicate 2026 dynamics, risking data gaps until mule car tests.
Conclusion
Pirelli’s two-day test at Fiorano on May 27-28, 2025, saw Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Yuki Tsunoda complete nearly 300 laps to develop the 2026 F1 hard compound tire. Focused on durability for the lighter, less downforce-heavy 2026 cars, the test provided critical data under ideal conditions. Antonelli’s and Tsunoda’s feedback on grip and consistency will shape Pirelli’s C1 tire, aiming to enhance racing in F1’s new era. As Pirelli ramps up its 25-test program, the Fiorano session marks a promising step toward versatile, high-performance tires, setting the stage for a thrilling 2026 season.
