The Formula 1 stage saw a pivotal development recently, as Alpine and Williams teams stayed back in Bahrain, even after the conclusion of the F1 pre-season testing. Their mission? A comprehensive two-day tyre test for the 2026 Pirelli model.
The teams didn’t miss a beat, using specially modified 2023 F1 vehicles, the A523 and FW45, to emulate the 2026 regulations. This strategic move allowed them to accurately test the new tyre constructions.
Sunday’s test run saw Carlos Sainz from Williams and Alpine’s reserve driver, Ryo Hirakawa, in the driver’s seat. They rigorously tested the 2026 18-inch tyres, designed 25mm narrower at the front and 30mm at the rear than the current models. Despite using the same tyre compounds, the duo experimented with multiple different constructions, accomplishing a total of 116 and 131 laps, respectively.
Sainz and Hirakawa’s fastest times were recorded at 1:34.740 and 1:35.336 respectively, setting the tone for the next day.
Monday’s test was handled by Alex Albon for Williams and Paul Aron for Alpine. In contrast to the previous day, the focus was shifted from testing varied constructions to running one construction with three different compounds, labelled C1 through C3. Aron covered a total of 130 laps, clocking his fastest time at 1:35.407s, while Albon completed 120 laps with a top time of 1:35.667s.
Mercedes is next in line to carry out the Pirelli 2026 tyre test at Silverstone on May 7-8. The test will focus on intermediated and extreme wet tyres, adding another layer to this comprehensive testing phase.
Pirelli’s Director of Motorsport, Mario Isola, lauded the efforts and the data collected from these tests. He stated, “Another very useful day for the development of the 2026 tyres.” With nearly 2,700 kilometres covered, Pirelli has gathered an immense amount of data to enhance their program.
Isola expressed gratitude towards the drivers and teams who extended their stay at the Bahrain track by three additional days during such a hectic time. He noted that the teams had less than two weeks before the first race.
He added that the Sakhir test allowed them to compare different types of construction and compound, which would further enhance the product for the next generation of cars. Pirelli’s R&D team will now meticulously analyze the data collected and provide critical insights for product improvement.
As the F1 circuit gears up for the future, this comprehensive tyre testing phase is a significant step forward in the evolution of the sport. With teams like Alpine, Williams, and soon Mercedes playing an integral role, the 2026 Pirelli tyres are poised to take the excitement of Formula 1 racing to the next level.
