All race cars, regardless of class, are demanded to operate under intense conditions and provide exceptional results. When considering how the car is going to handle the different situations, the only thing that the driver can rely on to properly execute his turn, are those 4 nicely shaped contact patches. Tires are so crucial, in Formula One when determining the outcome of a race, and there is definitely strategy behind the decisions that the professional teams make. All factors need to be considered, driver, weather conditions, track, etc. Do you throw on the softer slicks for better times, shorter lifespan, extra stops; or do you use the harder slicks, more consistent, longer lifespan and less stops? Small advantages can definitely control the outcome of a race, driver’s develop this as part of their craft.

If you know you can reach the softer tire’s proper operating temperature, they might be a good choice in cutting lap times early and building a gap. However, some drivers need to build consistency and prefer to maintain it for longer than a couple laps. In this case, the harder set of slicks will prove to be better because meanwhile the driver who had to pit in after building a small gap, will leave you on the track in a flying lap and still in full rhythm. With enough determination, good pace, and focus many drivers can recover the gap if not increase their own.

The Pirelli Tire testing at Ferrari’s home track in Fiorano brought out these very nice upgraded slicks will bring new competition levels to the playing field in 2017! These massive tires will definitely allow drivers to showcase some more of their daring efforts in every corner. Bringing these types of slicks back into play, many people would agree that it’s a step in right direction. But of course the main item that these fans want are those screaming 10-cylinder naturally aspirated monsters.

Formula One this season is beginning to have a couple of role changes on the field as well. The Red Bulls are making a stand to the Ferrari’s and pushing hard towards the Mercedes’. Some teams have also announced their next line-up for the 2017 season. Stay tuned on the Beligum GP on August 28th!