Pirelli has concluded that tire failures in the Qatar GP involving Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz were not linked to debris from a mirror run over by Valtteri Bottas. Investigations reveal that both drivers experienced pressure loss before encountering the debris, suggesting other causes may be responsible. Pirelli is conducting further tests to determine the exact reasons behind these incidents and will share findings soon.
Pirelli, the tire supplier for Formula 1, has shifted its stance on the reasons behind the tire failures experienced by Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz during the Qatar Grand Prix. Initial speculation suggested that debris from a mirror discarded by Alex Albon, which was run over by Valtteri Bottas, could have been responsible for the punctures. However, following a thorough analysis of telemetry data, Pirelli has indicated that the tire pressure losses occurred prior to any contact with this debris, suggesting alternative causes for the failures.
Pirelli’s chief engineer, Simone Berra, emphasized the ongoing investigation into the tire issues at their Milan facility. Early assessments show that both drivers began experiencing tire pressure drops before the mirror incident, thus leading to the conclusion that other debris or track conditions likely contributed to the damage. Pirelli is currently conducting tests on the returned tires, including examining cross-sections and sidewalls, to ascertain the exact failings, with results expected in the coming weeks.
Moreover, Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ trackside engineering director, corroborated Pirelli’s findings, noting that the team’s data showed a pressure drop in Hamilton’s tire before the mirror was hit, which further diminishes the likelihood of the mirror debris being the cause. The demanding conditions at the Losail circuit, where tires face significant forces, coupled with teams operating their tires at near-maximum levels of wear, contribute to the vulnerability of the tires to various forms of damage. As investigations continue, Pirelli aims to provide teams and the FIA with conclusive results regarding the cause of the punctures.
The discussion concerning tire failures in Formula 1 takes on critical importance as it affects both driver safety and race outcomes. The recent Qatar Grand Prix saw notable incidents where top competitors, including Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz, suffered front left tire failures during the race. Initial assumptions linked these failures to debris from a mirror that had been run over, highlighting the need for precise and accurate data analysis under the demanding conditions of a Grand Prix.
In conclusion, Pirelli’s investigation into the tire failures during the Qatar GP indicates that the incidents are unlikely associated with mirror debris. Instead, telemetry data points towards pre-existing tire pressure losses, warranting further investigation into various track factors and debris. Understanding these tire dynamics is essential for ensuring the safety of drivers and continues to be a crucial subject within the Formula 1 community.
Original Source: www.autosport.com
