Formula 1 driver George Russell has voiced criticism of the prototype Pirelli tyres set to debut as part of the sport’s sweeping regulation changes next year. Russell’s critique comes after his testing of the new tyres last month, which he described as “quite a step worse” than the current tyres.
The next-generation F1 regulations are prompting significant changes, including narrower tyres to cut down on drag. The front tyres will slim down by 25mm, while the rear tyres will lose 30mm in width. The objective? To optimize aerodynamics and improve the performance of the cars on the racetrack.
Several F1 teams have been aiding Pirelli in this endeavour by conducting tests using modified mule cars. These vehicles are fitted with slimmer wings, emulating the anticipated decrease in downforce that will come into play next season.
However, Russell’s recent test experience has cast a shadow of doubt over the effectiveness of the new tyres. His test run, which utilised a tweaked Mercedes 2024-spec W15 car fitted with the new Pirelli tyres, took place in Jerez last month. His assessment was less than glowing. “It was quite a step worse with the new tyres,” Russell admitted to media outlets, including Motorsport Week, during pre-season testing.
The narrower tyres, Russell explained, are naturally going to pose a challenge when compared to the wider tyres currently in use. However, he expressed hope that improvements will be made over the coming months.
But it’s not just the teams who are facing challenges. Pirelli has its own hurdles to overcome, particularly when it comes to collecting accurate data. The 2026 cars are predicted to generate 15% less downforce, and test runs have been carried out at similar speeds to match current regulations. The problem is that the adapted cars aren’t fully representative of how the tyres will perform under race conditions, which skews the data and compromises its accuracy.
Pirelli Racing Manager Mario Isola acknowledged the limitations of the mule cars, stating, “We cannot just rely on the mule cars because it won’t be sensible.” He added that teams will likely gain more accurate data from tests run in their own simulators. Pirelli plans to continue providing teams with a virtual model of the tyre for use in their simulators, and will rely on that feedback to guide future improvements. “And this is the right direction we should continue in,” Isola affirmed.
As the countdown to the 2026 season continues, Pirelli, the teams, and the drivers will all be working hard to ensure the new tyres meet the high-speed, high-stakes demands of Formula 1 racing. Despite Russell’s initial skepticism, the hope is that the narrower tyres will, in due course, prove to be a positive step forward rather than a step worse.