In FP2, Leclerc posted the fastest time of 1:35.291 on the Soft C4 compound. He was followed by Kimi Antonelli, who clocked a 1:35.333, while four-time World Champion Max Verstappen was third with a 1:35.480. All three drivers set their best times on the Soft tyre.

The Ferrari driver started the second hour of running on the Hard C2, while Antonelli and Verstappen initially opted for the Medium C3. During the second half of the session, the three drivers carried out race simulations following different programmes. Leclerc and Verstappen completed their long runs on used sets of Soft tyres, while the Italian driver ran on a used set of Mediums.

Across the day, all three compounds were used extensively. In FP1, thirteen drivers completed at least one stint on the Hard, all twenty ran on the Soft, and nine used the Medium. As was also the case in FP2, the quickest laps came during the opening phase of the session before the focus shifted to race pace evaluation and long runs.

Earlier in the day, Leclerc had already topped FP1 with a time of 1:36.052. Verstappen and Lando Norris followed in second and third respectively. Track temperatures reached 43°C this afternoon, while ambient temperatures were around 32°C.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“The indications from the first two sessions confirm very consistent behaviour from the three compounds selected for this Grand Prix. So far, the C2 appears likely to play only a limited role in defining race strategies, while teams are focusing primarily on the Medium and Soft compounds. Given the level of degradation observed and the rapid evolution of track grip, a one-stop race currently appears to be the most likely scenario.

Track evolution is progressing as expected. The surface was particularly dirty at the start of running, but it rubbered in quickly, allowing grip levels to reach a very good standard. The performance gaps between the compounds are also in line with expectations, at around nine tenths of a second between the Medium and Hard, and five tenths between the Medium and Soft. Particular attention will also be paid to the aerodynamic balance of the cars, an aspect made even more significant by the bumps and irregularities of the track surface. An imbalance can increase the tendency for front-wheel locking under the heaviest braking zones, making it crucial to find the best possible compromise in terms of car set-up.”

THE AGREEMENT WILL ENABLE THE TWO COMPANIES TO CAPTURE THE GROWING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE INDIAN MARKET

TRONCHETTI: INDIA WILL HAVE A KEY ROLE IN THE EVOLUTION OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

RAJIV PODDAR: BKT’S INDUSTRIAL CAPABILITIES, QUALITY STANDARDS AND LONG-STANDING EXPERTISE PROVIDE A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR PARTNERSHIPS OF THIS SCALE.

Milan/Mumbai, 22 October 2026 - Pirelli and Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) have signed a strategic agreement aimed at capturing the opportunities offered by the Indian car tyre market, one of the most dynamic and promising at the global level.

India is today one of the most attractive automotive markets in the world, with car registrations estimated to increase by 5-7% annually from 2025 to 2030 and a premium Car tyre market seen growing almost fivefold.

The partnership - which unites Pirelli’s high-end technological leadership with BKT’s local industrial positioning and strong presence – foresees a first phase based on an off-take agreement, through which BKT will produce, in one of its own newly constructed plants equipped with the most advanced technology, up to 800,000 Pirelli branded tyres by 2030 with Pirelli’s specific technological and quality standards.

This agreement paves the way for a second phase which envisages, subject to certain conditions, the creation of a 50-50 joint venture and the construction of a production plant dedicated to High Value car tyres, both with the Pirelli brand and the BKT brand to serve India and other international markets.

For Pirelli, with only a commercial presence in India at present, the agreement constitutes a significant step towards reinforcing its positioning in a Country characterized by great potential and growing demand for High Value tyres, the segment where Pirelli is focused.

For BKT, the agreement supports the company’s expansion into the passenger car tyre segment and is expected to create new opportunities in both domestic and international markets.

Marco Tronchetti Provera, Executive Chairman of Pirelli, said: “India is taking an ever more central role in the evolution of the global automotive industry, thanks to the market’s growth, development of mobility and progressive strengthening of the Country’s industrial and technological competencies. The agreement with BKT, a first-class industrial partner with solid roots in India and a significant international presence, represents for Pirelli a strategic choice which will allow us to strengthen our position in a market among those with the greatest growth potential and to accompany its evolution, drawing on our competencies, innovation and positioning in the segments with the greatest value”.

Arvind Poddar, Chairman and Managing Director of Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) said: “This partnership brings together complementary strengths to capture the opportunities of a growing market while creating value for both companies”.

Andrea Casaluci, CEO of Pirelli, added: “We are confident that the collaboration between BKT, with its industrial excellence and knowledge of the market, and Pirelli, bringing innovative technologies and high-end positioning, will not only open new opportunities for both groups but will also contribute to the growing premiumization of the Indian tyre market. The outlook for the national automotive market, and especially for the partnership's premium products is very promising. And the time is right to catch that wave”.

Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director of Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT), commented: “When a globally established brand such as Pirelli chooses BKT, it is a recognition of the manufacturing strength, quality and expertise we have built over decades. We are proud to bring our industrial scale to this partnership and to serve customers not only in India but also across our international markets. Pirelli’s technological leadership and BKT’s industrial capabilities provide together a strong foundation for lasting values.”

About Pirelli

Founded in Milan in 1872, Pirelli is today one of the world's largest tyre manufacturers and the only one fully focused on the Consumer market, with products and services for cars, motorbikes, and bicycles. Positioned at the top of the range in the High Value, Premium, and Prestige segments, the brand combines deep Italian roots with international scale, supported by 18 plants in 12 countries, a commercial network in over 160 countries, around 31,000 employees, and €6.8 billion in revenues in 2025. Driven by cutting-edge technology and sustainability, Pirelli invested 5.6% of its 2025 High Value revenues in R&D. Its flagship technology is Cyber™ Tyre, the world’s first system that collects data from sensors embedded in the tyre and communicates it in real time to the vehicle’s electronics, increasing safety, vehicle efficiency and supporting road infrastructure monitoring. Demonstrating its environmental leadership, Pirelli is also the world's first company to produce FSC-certified tyres using sustainable natural rubber and rayon, an achievement reflected in its top standings on global sustainability benchmarks like the Dow Jones Best-In-Class World and Europe indices. Pirelli’s legacy also extends into sports and culture. Competing in motorsports since 1907, the company is active in over 350 competitions and has been the exclusive Global Tyre Partner of Formula One™ since 2011, with a contract running through 2028. Beyond racing, Pirelli has published the iconic Pirelli Calendar since 1963, fosters design and lifestyle projects through Pirelli Design, manages the Pirelli HangarBicocca contemporary art space, and preserves its heritage and culture via Fondazione Pirelli.

About BKT

Established in 1987, Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) is an Indian multinational and a leading Off-Highway tyre manufacturer headquartered in Mumbai. With a portfolio of over 3,600 specialized products for agriculture, industrial, construction, mining, earthmoving, and material handling applications, the company serves customers in more than 160 countries. The company also manufactures rubber tracks for the agricultural and industrial sectors. Recently, BKT announced its entry into the Two-Wheeler, Passenger Car, and Commercial Vehicle segments for the Indian market. The company’s vertically integrated manufacturing ecosystem is supported by in-house carbon black production and R&D centers focused on product innovation, performance, and application specific design. Driven by a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions, BKT continues to expand its global footprint while investing in advanced technologies, manufacturing capabilities, and next-generation mobility solutions. The company’s focus on developing high-performance products tailored to the evolving needs of its customers enables BKT to strengthen its position as a trusted partner across diverse markets and applications. Through continuous investment in research and development, operational excellence, and sustainable practices, BKT aims to create long-term value while supporting the changing demands of the global mobility industry.

For more information, visit www.bkt-tires.com

Published on: 22 October 2026, 09:52 CET

For this edition of the United States Grand Prix, Pirelli has selected the C2 as Hard, C3 as Medium and C4 as Soft, returning to a compound combination used in the past following the 2025 experiment, when a compound step was introduced between Hard and Medium.

Last year, in fact, the C1 was nominated as the hardest tyre but was not used in the race. Teams favoured one-stop strategies, relying on the softer C3 and C4 compounds.

Compared to 2025, the weekend returns to the traditional format without a Sprint. The most recent Sprint race took place in Singapore. Teams will therefore have three free practice sessions available to work on car balance and optimise set-ups on a circuit that does not require particularly extreme compromises.

The Austin circuit, which is 5.513 kilometres long, features a mix of high-speed corners, rapid direction changes and slower sections that demand strong traction. To be competitive, teams must combine good straight-line speed with efficient aerodynamic load through the more technical sections, an aspect that becomes even more important with the current generation of Formula 1 cars.

From a tyre perspective, COTA places demands on both axles. In the first sector, characterised by fast corners and direction changes inspired by some of Europe’s great circuits, the front tyres will be placed under particular stress. In the third sector, meanwhile, the numerous acceleration zones out of slow corners will tend to generate thermal degradation primarily on the rear tyres.

The asphalt surface is not particularly abrasive. A section of the circuit between Turns 9 and 11 was resurfaced earlier this year. However, the ageing effect on the remainder of the track continues to be significant and contributes to high wear levels. Tyre wear, rather than graining, could therefore prove to be one of the key factors over the weekend. During last year's event, several tyres reached very high wear values.

Track grip is generally good, aided by the support categories, including the Porsche Carrera Cup North America, which has been supplied by Pirelli since the start of this year. Track evolution, on the other hand, has traditionally not been among the most pronounced on the calendar.

From a strategic standpoint, the presence of the C2 as the Hard compound could favour long stints, offering teams a solid option for what is likely to be a one-stop race. However, the high temperatures that typically characterise the Texan weekend must also be taken into account, as they could increase degradation and open the door to alternative strategies.

IN 2025

The most popular strategy at last year’s United States Grand Prix was Medium-Soft, adopted by 13 drivers. Among the podium finishers, Charles Leclerc was the exception, claiming third place after choosing to start on the Soft tyre to gain an early grip advantage. Only three drivers further down the order started on the Hard compound.

STATISTICS

The United States Grand Prix has been held 13 times in Austin, but the event has a total history of 46 editions staged across six different circuits. The most successful driver in the history of the race is Lewis Hamilton, with six victories, one fewer than Michael Schumacher’s all-time record. Among constructors, Ferrari holds the record with 11 wins.

PORSCHE CARRERA CUP NORTH AMERICA

The 2026 Porsche Carrera Cup North America season, supplied by Pirelli for the first time, will conclude at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin during the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix weekend. After extending his championship lead to 27 points at Road Atlanta, Tyler Maxson arrives at the season finale firmly at the top of the Mobil Pro class standings. However, with two races and valuable bonus points still available, Aaron Jeansonne remains firmly in contention for the title heading into the decisive Texas showdown.

PODIUM CAP SPECIAL EDITION

The United States Grand Prix features a special podium cap created by designer Denis Dekovic for Pirelli Design. The crown features a pattern inspired by the stars of the American flag, enriched with two symbols of the Texan desert landscape: cacti and rattlesnakes. The visor carries the word “Austin” on a black background. The cap is already available to purchase via Pirelli’s e-commerce platform: https://store.pirelli.com.

Phillip Island, a worthy adversary for many years
 
“Some circuits present a tyre manufacturer with a particularly severe challenge, whether because of their layout, the asphalt or the temperatures that can arise. From this perspective, Phillip Island has been an absolute benchmark for many years: an extremely demanding circuit, capable of putting tyres to the test and driving us to keep improving the performance of our products. In a sense, it has been an adversary, one that commands respect and, precisely because of the scale of the challenge, pushes you beyond your limits. Added to all this is the unique appeal of a circuit that has retained its distinctive identity over the years. That is why we will be sorry not to race here anymore: Phillip Island is an ideal proving ground for tyre development, and its characteristics are precisely why we chose the circuit for the debut of the new F0604 rear tyre for Moto2™. This solution has been developed to provide greater resistance to wear, going beyond the level already achieved by the D0922 and further broadening the range of options available to us for tackling the circuits that place the greatest demands on tyres”.

With the Pirelli Spanish Round held at Jerez de la Frontera, Pirelli concluded its journey as the Official Sole Tyre Supplier in the FIM Superbike World Championship, after 23 consecutive seasons. This partnership was crucial in shaping the technical identity of the premier production-derived motorcycle championship, through continuous product development, technological innovation and an unwavering focus on tyre safety and reliability, while constantly working alongside the organisers, the federation, manufacturers and teams.
 
Giorgio Barbier, Pirelli Motorcycle Racing Director, said, “For more than two decades, we turned WorldSBK into an innovation lab, and helped organisers, the federation, manufacturers and teams in its evolution. By constantly creating and fine-tuning new compounds, structures and solutions, we have boosted performance and set new records year after year, while also generating technology and expertise that went on to be transferred to road tyres. We pursued this quest right through the final season, and it does not end here: the experience gained in WorldSBK will continue to drive Pirelli's leading edge both in motorsport and on the road”.
 
Pirelli's history in the production-derived motorcycle World Championship began in 1989, with the company's official debut on Rumi’s team Honda RC30, ridden by the then reigning World Champion Fred Merkel. After narrowly missing the podium on his opener race at Donington Park, the American rider secured pole position and won both Hungaroring races, setting himself on course to defend his world title. After stepping back from major motorcycle racing championships in the 1990s, Pirelli returned to the forefront in 2004, when the WorldSBK promoter selected the company as the Official Sole Tyre Supplier, introducing a model that would mark a turning point in international motorsport.
 
From track to road, a distinctive strategy
Pirelli's approach to the World Superbike Championship was driven by a clear strategy: to turn racing into a genuine development lab for motorcyclists. And in a production-derived motorcycle championship, this meant using tyres that would closely resemble the products available on the market, rather than solutions designed exclusively for racing.
 
Non-stop technological innovation
From the outset of its involvement in World Superbike, Pirelli embarked on an innovation journey that progressively redefined racing tyre performance, and then transferred the knowledge gained on the track to improve road products as well. 
 
After its launch in 2005, the DIABLO™ Superbike became a benchmark in the racing slick range. It was followed by the DIABLO™ Supercorsa in 2007, developed for the championship's support classes, then used in 2008 to create the DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP, a high-performance road tyre. In 2012, the SC0 compound was introduced for the DIABLO™ Superbike, and then extended to the road range the following year. In 2013, the rims went from 16.5-inch to 17-inch, resembling production motorcycle configurations even more. The 125/70 front and 200/65 rear tyre sizes arrived in 2018, followed by the SCX supersoft compound in 2019, and the SCQ extrasoft compound in 2022, which maximised performance over a single flying lap. And from 2020 onwards, all classes in the championship adopted slick tyres.
 
“Despite operating under a single-tyre supplier system and always providing competitive products, our goal has consistently been to improve our game, year after year, by offering state-of-the-art products while paying extremely close attention to market demands. This was especially true in the early years, when end users wanted and needed a pure racing product they could use on the track. We recognised that need, by continuing to develop increasingly better products, and, most of all, by introducing new race-to-road sizes, which became the new benchmark for the sports motorcycles on the market,” added Barbier.
 
From supplier to strategic partner
Over the course of those 23 seasons, Pirelli's role evolved into a proactive partnership supporting the championship’s development. Beyond the technical aspects, this commitment fostered on a close-knit relationship with Infront first and Dorna second, encompassing even marketing and communication activities. 
 
The various initiatives, initially conceived for Pirelli's guests, were gradually extended to the entire paddock, making the championship more attractive and engaging for supporters and for a broader audience, while strengthening its visibility.
 
Development and records, right through to the final round
The 2026 season confirmed the consistency of this approach. Pirelli continued to develop its lines through to the final event, providing WorldSBK riders with 17 front and rear tyre solutions, combining standard range products with development specifications. This commitment continued throughout this last season, backed by constant performance gains and new milestones: 10 all-time lap records and 11 race lap records, alongside significant race distance improvements.
 
From James Toseland, the first World Champion of the Pirelli era in 2004, aboard the Ducati 999 F04, to Nicolò Bulega, who dominated the 2026 season on the Ducati Panigale V4 R with XX wins in 36 races, Pirelli's sporting and technological journey in WorldSBK spanned 23 seasons and accompanied the championship’s evolution and the performance of production-derived motorcycles. Now that this extraordinary chapter is coming to an end, the wealth of knowledge and expertise we have gained will continue to drive Pirelli’s tyre development and our commitment to the highest racing levels.
 
 
Pirelli WorldSBK statistics, 2004–2026
 
· Rounds held: 289

· Total races: 661

· Total km race laps completed in the WorldSBK class: 1,143,782

· Riders at start: 1,020

· Number of circuits: 33

· Highest top speed: 339.500 km/h (T. Sykes, Kawasaki – Monza 2012)

· Fastest race average speed: 201.814 km/h (M. Melandri, BMW – Monza 2013)

· Highest average lap speed: 205.459 km/h (T. Sykes, Kawasaki – Monza 2013)

· Top three host nations for number of rounds: Italy 51, Spain 41, UK 30

· Most races hosted by a circuit: 54 (Magny-Cours, Phillip Island, Assen and Misano)
 
Pirelli WorldSBK statistics, 2026

· All-time Lap records: 10

· Race lap records: 11

· Riders at start: 30

· Tyre specifications: 17 (5 front and 12 rear)

· Tyres used: 5,544

· Total km race laps completed in the WorldSBK class: 52,090

A special finale, combining technical progress with outstanding sports achievements

"The final round of a season always feels special, and Jerez was even more significant, as it marked the end of Pirelli’s 23 years as Official Sole Tyre Supplier of the FIM WorldSBK. This Round confirmed the steady progress we have made throughout the season. Jerez de la Frontera is very demanding on tyres, because asphalt conditions change as temperatures rise, leading to a gradual grip reduction. Despite this, Superbike riders’ performances improved session after session: a new race lap record was set in the Superpole Race, and race times were also significantly faster, with Race 2 ending 24 seconds earlier than the previous record time, and the Superpole Race 11 seconds earlier. Average lap times improved by more than a second. These results confirm how effective the softer standard-range solutions made available to riders in this Round - the supersoft SCX rear and soft SC1 front – actually were.
On an end note, I would like to congratulate Bulega, who rounded off an outstanding season with yet another trifecta, and the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team, which went on to win every single race in the Championship. We know how difficult it is to achieve consistent success in sports, and this accomplishment will certainly go down in history.
I would also like to congratulate Xavi Artigas and the MTM Kawasaki team for winning the first Sportbike World Championship. This category has already showcased some highly promising young talents right from the start, and we can’t wait to see them competing in the higher classes in the near future”.

The 2026 GT World Challenge Europe Powered by AWS season came to a close at Portimão with victory for Ralf Aron, Maximilian Götz and Fabian Schiller in the #17 Mercedes-AMG Team GetSpeed Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO.

Starting from second on the grid, the German squad’s line-up secured GetSpeed’s first-ever Endurance Cup win. They finished more than five seconds clear of the #80 Lionspeed GP Porsche 911 GT3 R EVO shared by Ricardo Feller, Thomas Preining and Bastian Buus. Third place went to another Porsche, the #2 Boutsen VDS entry driven by Morris Schuring, Dorian Boccolacci and Alessio Picariello.

The three-hour race, which finished after sunset, saw the top ten cars separated by just a few seconds in the opening phase. The evening start and a sharp drop in temperatures compared with Friday, brought on by a sudden wind, made the challenge even more demanding and unpredictable for the teams. Among the headline names was Max Verstappen, making his series debut with Ben Barnicoat and Chris Lulham in the Team Verstappen Racing Mercedes-AMG. Taking the wheel in 24th position after a penalty handed to the crew, the Dutchman fought his way back to finish ninth.

The 2026 champions
Maro Engel and Lucas Auer clinched the GT World Challenge Europe overall drivers’ title, decided on combined Sprint and Endurance Cup results. The title was confirmed on the eve of the Portimão race, after Winward Racing’s appeal against their disqualification at Misano was upheld. The two Mercedes-AMG drivers completed a season of remarkable consistency. This success adds to the Endurance title they had already secured with Luca Stolz in the #48 Mercedes-AMG Team Mann-Filter car.

The Sprint Cup, meanwhile, went to Ricardo Feller and Bastian Buus. The Lionspeed GP pairing built their success over a season whose highlights included victory at the 24 Hours of Spa, achieved together with Thomas Preining after starting from the pit lane.

In the teams’ standings, Team WRT (BMW) took both the overall and Sprint Cup titles, while Winward Racing (Mercedes-AMG) won the Endurance Cup teams’ classification.

Record grids
The 2026 season confirmed the growth and appeal of the GT World Challenge Europe. The two seasonal entry lists attracted a total of 104 entries: 59 in the Endurance Cup and a record 45 in the Sprint Cup, with both series at full capacity.

Numbers remained high throughout the championship, culminating at Portimão, where 61 cars representing ten manufacturers took to the track – the largest grid in Endurance Cup history outside the 24 Hours of Spa.

Matteo Braga, Pirelli Circuit Activity Manager:
‘The GT World Challenge Europe has reached a very high level of excellence, both in the quality of its crews and manufacturers and in the size of its grids. These figures confirm the championship’s growing appeal to teams and fans alike. From a technical point of view, the tyres delivered consistent performance and reliability across every race and format, from the Sprint rounds to the 24 Hours of Spa, even in the high temperatures that characterised the entire season. It is a result that rewards the work Pirelli has carried out together with the teams and manufacturers.’

GT2 and GT4: the Portimão verdicts
In the GT2 European Series, Race 1 was won by Wilhelm Kühne and Moritz Wiskirchen in the SR Motorsport by Schnitzelalm Mercedes-AMG GT2, ahead of the Maserati GT2 of Antoine Potty and that of Philippe and Louis Prette. Race 2 went to Philippe and Louis Prette in the LP Racing Maserati GT2.

The 2026 overall title was claimed by Ethan Gialdini and Mikkel Njor in the CMR Ginetta G56 GT2.

In the GT4 European Series, the first race of the Portuguese weekend was won by Jay Mo Härtling and Joel Mesch in the SR Motorsport by Schnitzelalm Mercedes-AMG GT4. Race 2 victory went to Paul Petit and Grégory Guilvert in the Team Speedcar Audi R8 LMS GT4.

The 2026 Silver Cup title, the series’ main honour, was won by Charlie Hart and McKenzy Cresswell in the Elite Motorsport with Entire Race Engineering McLaren Artura GT4.

The standard-range SC2 medium front proves to be the winning choice

"Jerez circuit has always been very sensitive to temperature variations, with track grip progressively decreasing as temperatures rise. It is also demanding on tyres, with generally high wear both front and rear, meaning that a rider's ability to manage their gradual degradation can make all the difference.
In these conditions, the standard-range SC2 medium compound proved to be a competitive and winning option. And Nicolò Bulega’s choice clearly went in this direction. He was one of the very few riders to opt for this solution, which provided greater consistency and stability under demanding conditions, allowing him to add a 30th victory to an already extraordinary season.
At the rear, the standard-range SCX supersoft once again proved highly competitive, even as temperatures rose. It enabled both WorldSBK and WorldSSP riders to significantly reduce their overall race times compared with last year, when air and track temperatures were much lower.
And last but not least I would like to congratulate Maria Herrera and the Terra & Vita GRT Yamaha WorldWCR team on securing the WorldWCR riders' title. Herrera has been a leader in this category for years, and by successfully defending her title – with 6 wins and 4 podiums in 11 races – she once again confirms her outstanding capabilities".

Grip on snow and wet roads combines with comfort and durability, with performance maintained consistently over time.

Milan, 13 October 2026 – The new Scorpion Winter 3 completes the renewal of Pirelli’s winter tyre range and has been developed to meet the specific needs of SUVs in typical cold-weather conditions. Vehicles in this segment now account for more than 50% of the global market^[1] and have distinctive characteristics, including greater weight and a higher centre of gravity, which call for tyres with dedicated internal structures and tread patterns. These requirements have guided the development of Scorpion Winter 3, which delivers a high level of performance balance across the different conditions encountered during the winter season, from snow and wet roads to dry surfaces. It therefore overcomes one of the main compromises associated with winter tyres, offering drivers of Sport Utility Vehicles consistently strong performance, even in the most demanding situations. This has already been confirmed by the first independent test, in which Scorpion Winter 3 was named the best-performing tyre among its competitors^[2].

All sizes available at launch have an A rating for wet grip on the EU tyre label^[3], while noise levels fall within classes A–B^[4]. To meet the growing demand for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in this segment, Scorpion Winter 3 is also available with Pirelli Elect technology, specifically designed for these powertrains.

DEVELOPMENT: DESIGN SOLUTIONS TAILORED TO THE WINTER NEEDS OF SUVs

The development process began by examining tyre behaviour under heavy loads. The contact patch was redesigned to optimise pressure peaks, a key requirement for both mileage performance and even wear on heavy vehicles such as SUVs. This approach has led to the first major innovation of the new generation: as the tread wears, the active edges within the contact patch – and, consequently, grip on snow and wet roads – remain consistent over time. The tyre structure has also been engineered to accommodate high vehicle weights, with a dedicated internal carcass and tread design.

The tread geometry incorporates several solutions developed for the Cinturato Winter 3, which recently won a test conducted by independent German automotive association ADAC. These include the zigzag central groove, which helps evacuate water and supports lateral grip on snow; Pirelli’s patented Snow Keeper Teeth technology, which retains snow within the grooves to harness the grip generated by snow-on-snow contact; and a high void ratio, which enhances performance on snow and wet roads while helping to counter aquaplaning. These features are complemented by solutions specifically developed for SUVs, including stiffer tread blocks to improve handling and wear resistance under high loads, and a carefully calibrated sipe density to maintain performance on dry roads as well.

The compound draws on the experience gained with P Zero Winter 2, the tyre developed to deliver winter performance for high-performance cars. It incorporates specific polymers, including Dual-Core Polymer, whose dual operating mechanism provides enhanced grip in a variety of conditions, while plasticisers broaden the tyre’s operating temperature range.

VIRTUAL AND PHYSICAL TESTING: FROM DRIVING SIMULATORS TO THE PROVING GROUND IN LAPLAND

In developing Scorpion Winter 3, Pirelli’s engineers at Bicocca made extensive use of the company’s established advanced Virtual Development techniques. These enable precise results to be achieved by simulating a range of variables, while also reducing development times and the number of prototypes required for fine-tuning. The use of driving simulators – from static to dynamic systems – enabled the team to focus on performance, particularly dry handling and driving enjoyment. During the testing phase, the Pirelli Sottozero Center, a proving ground located in Swedish Lapland, played a key role in the development process. Its facilities make it possible to test the tyre on a variety of surfaces, from snow to ice, throughout the year, thanks in part to its indoor testing facilities.

THE PIRELLI WINTER RANGE AND PRODUCT OFFERING

Scorpion Winter 3 launches with a range of 30 sizes, from 18 to 22 inches, and offers several specialised technologies. These include Elect technology, which can increase the range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by up to 10%^[5]; and the Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS), which reduces perceived rolling noise inside the cabin through the use of a special sound-absorbing material fitted inside the tyre. The tyre is also available with Seal Inside technology, which helps maintain air pressure in the event of a puncture caused by an external object^[6].

The new winter tyre joins the Scorpion family, launched by Pirelli in 1986 specifically for high-riding vehicles and first fitted to the Lamborghini LM002. Since then, the Scorpion range has expanded to cover summer, winter and all-season applications, spanning road tyres for SUVs and products designed for off-road use. From the outset, Scorpion has had a strong focus on original equipment, with products developed in collaboration with car manufacturers. Scorpion Winter 3 continues this tradition, contributing to the family’s portfolio of more than 1,200 homologations, including bespoke developments for models from leading premium and prestige brands such as Aston Martin, Porsche, Lamborghini, Lotus, Audi, BMW, JLR and NIO.

With the requirement to carry winter tyres or snow chains coming into force on 15 November, Scorpion Winter 3 completes Pirelli’s Winter range, which has been fully renewed over the past two years and tailored to different vehicle types. Alongside the new winter tyre for SUVs and CUVs, the range includes P Zero Winter 2 for high-performance cars and Cinturato Winter 3 for saloons and crossovers.

*****

Pirelli Press Office

Tel. +39 02 6442 4270

pressoffice@pirelli.com – www.pirelli.com

[1] Source: S&P Global Mobility data and analysis.

[2] Tests conducted by AlVolante (Year 28, No. 10, October 2026) using 235/60 R18 tyres on an Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

[3] All replacement sizes available at the time of product launch achieved an A rating (100%) for wet grip under the EU tyre labelling system.

[4] All replacement sizes available at the time of product launch received EU tyre label noise ratings ranging from 25% in class A to 75% in class B.

[5] Comparison between PIRELLI SCORPION™ ELECT™ and PIRELLI SCORPION™ tyres, size 235/60 R18, measuring the increase in battery range resulting from the reduced rolling resistance of the ELECT™ version. Tests were conducted on a Volkswagen ID.4 under instrumented conditions at a constant speed of 50 km/h over a range of 550 km. Source: Pirelli in-house R&D tests conducted between March and June 2022.

[6] An explanation of how the technology works is available at this link.

Published on: 13 October 2026, 11:00 CET

Jerez hosts the final chapter in a story of success and innovation

“The Pirelli Spanish Round will mark the final chapter in the long journey that began in 2004, when Pirelli joined the FIM Superbike World Championship as Official Tyre Supplier. Over the years, we have built a partnership that has seen us become not just a supplier, but an active and strategic partner, contributing to the growth and development of the Championship.
Before saying our final goodbyes, however, we still have one last round ahead of us, which we want to approach with the same determination and the aim of bringing a particularly positive season to the best possible conclusion. The results achieved, with new records set at virtually every circuit and in a wide variety of conditions, have gone hand in hand with intensive development work, carried out alongside the teams right up to the final race.
For this last event, we have chosen to retain the softest rear options, the extrasoft SCQ and supersoft SCX, which have been used throughout much of the season. The extensive data collected over the years at Jerez, both during races and in testing, confirms that these are the most effective options for tackling a circuit characterised by low-abrasion asphalt".

Across eight race weekends, the new P Zero tyre for DTM proved to be the right product to boost competitiveness in the popular racing series.

Thomas Preining (Manthey) was crowned 2026 DTM champion at Hockenheim, where Lucas Auer (Mercedes AMG Team Landgraf) and Maro Engel (Mercedes-AMG Team Winward) claimed victory in the final two races of the season. The Hockenheim weekend also brought the debut season of the P Zero developed exclusively for the DTM to a close. Across eight race weekends and a wide range of circuits and conditions, the tyre confirmed its principal development targets: rapid warm-up, a high level of grip and predictable performance throughout each stint. These characteristics gave drivers the opportunity to influence performance through tyre management while opening up different strategic options for the teams. It also became apparent that performance was evenly distributed across all brands, meaning that each one was able to deliver its best performance under all conditions.

“Our aim was to develop a tyre that reflected the character of the DTM and made tyre management a genuine part of the competition,” said Matteo Braga, Circuit Activity Manager at Pirelli. “The combination of rapid warm-up, performance and controlled degradation gave drivers room to make a difference and teams the opportunity to explore different race strategies.”

Thomas Preining (Manthey) assesses the impact of the new Pirelli tyres as follows: “I think, all in all, the new tyres have brought about improvements on most circuits compared to the past, not only in terms of pace but also in terms of the excitement of the races.”

“In the DTM, we have created a level playing field with exclusive Pirelli tyres, whilst at the same time giving tyre management greater sporting significance. Thanks to the technologies deployed by Pirelli, we have also been able to convey this crucial aspect of the races to the spectators,” says ADAC Head of Motorsport Thomas Voss. “The debut season has shown that the tyres combine rapid warm-up times and a high level of grip with manageable wear. This opens up additional strategic options for drivers and teams and contributes to exciting, hard-to-predict races.”

The DTM tyre is produced at Pirelli’s Technology Hub in Breuberg, Hesse. The experience and data collected throughout the 2026 season will now provide the foundation for Pirelli’s continuing work in the DTM.

Furthermore, as a long-standing tyre partner, Pirelli continued to support the ADAC GT Masters in the 2026 season as well, once again providing the teams with a reliable foundation for their performance.

Today, he completed the clean sweep by adding success in Sunday’s race. Behind the Dutchman, Charles Leclerc finished second, while Kimi Antonelli claimed third place.

The Italian further extended his advantage in the World Championship standings, thanks in part to the ninth-place finish of his closest title rival and team-mate, George Russell.

The strategies adopted by the top three finishers differed slightly. Verstappen opted for a one-stop race, while Leclerc and Antonelli took advantage of a Virtual Safety Car period to make a second pit stop.

All three drivers on the podium started on the Soft before switching to the Medium. After the first tyre change, Leclerc and Antonelli pitted again on lap 39 to fit a fresh set of Soft tyres during the neutralisation. Verstappen did not take advantage of the VSC and, after completing 32 laps on his starting Soft compound, switched to the Medium and took it all the way to the chequered flag.

Only the Soft and Medium compounds were used during the race. Russell completed the longest stint on a single set of Medium tyres, covering 39 laps. Lewis Hamilton, who finished sixth, completed the highest number of laps on a set of Soft tyres, managing 44.

Antonelli therefore strengthened his lead in the World Championship, moving on to 340 points. Russell remains second on 238, while Hamilton is third with 229.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“As widely expected, regardless of the neutralisations, the one-stop strategy proved to be the most competitive, with the Soft-Medium combination emerging as the most effective option.

The C5 was the star of the race, as it delivered very long stints while maintaining a strong level of performance and offering the advantage of greater grip than the other compounds available. Drivers who used it for around half the race only experienced a performance drop-off in the closing stages.

The Hard tyre was not a strategically attractive option for the teams, as it offered less grip than the C4 which, despite being the softer compound, exhibited virtually no degradation, without providing any tangible advantages in a race already firmly geared towards a one-stop strategy. As a result, although the C3 has proven effective at other circuits, it was not selected by any driver in Singapore.

Tyre degradation was in line with what we had already observed during free practice, and the visual condition of the tyres at the end of the stints was also very encouraging, even over the longest runs. Wear was manageable, although it required a degree of attention, particularly on the rear-right.”

· Guevara wins again, misfortune for Escrig. The Moto2™ race, shortened to 14 laps following a red flag caused by an accident, was won by Izan Guevara (Boscoscuro) ahead of Manuel Gonzalez (Kalex) and Daniel Holgado (Kalex). Every rider opted for the soft SC1 front tyre, while the most popular rear option was the new F0515 development specification in soft compound, also used by the winner and runner-up. Álex Escrig (Forward), also running the F0515, had taken the lead and set a new race lap record before a technical issue forced him to retire. The problem cut short what had been an outstanding performance.

· New race lap records. Mandalika saw new race lap records in both Moto2™ and Moto3™. In Moto2™, Álex Escrig (Forward) set the new benchmark with a lap of 1’32.497 on lap three, shaving more than six tenths off the previous record of 1’33.104, set by Daniel Holgado in 2025. In Moto3™, Matteo Bertelle (KTM) stopped the clock at 1'37.189 on lap 18, beating the previous record by 66 thousandths. Despite the races being run over a different number of laps from last year, race pace improved significantly, by more than 0.6 seconds per lap in Moto2™ and around 0.4 seconds in Moto3™.

Strong performance even on scorching asphalt; congratulations to Quiles

“The overall outcome of this weekend is extremely positive. Despite particularly challenging conditions, with track temperatures reaching exceptionally high levels, the tyres delivered consistent and reliable performance over both a single lap and full race distance. The results provide clear confirmation: all-time lap records were broken in both classes yesterday, while new race lap records were set today. Race pace was also significantly faster than in previous editions, improving by around six tenths per lap in Moto2™ and four tenths in Moto3™.
The tyres played a decisive role in achieving these results, confirming high levels of performance, stability and reliability even in some of the toughest conditions of the entire season. Their behaviour on track was impeccable, allowing the riders to exploit the full potential of their bikes and tackle the challenges of the Indonesian circuit with confidence.
I would also like to highlight the excellent debut of the new F0515 soft rear specification, introduced in Moto2™ at this Grand Prix. The fact that most riders chose to use it in the race, together with the results achieved, provides very important confirmation of the development work our team carries out consistently throughout the season and encourages us to continue in this direction.
Finally, I would like to congratulate Máximo Quiles and the CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team on an outstanding season and a thoroughly deserved world title, earned through consistently strong performances”.

SCX at the heart of Estoril's records
 
"As has often been the case in the past, the Estoril Round was characterised by changeable weather conditions. Falling temperatures and variable wind speeds required teams to work continuously on their set-ups to find the best possible grip on an asphalt surface that traditionally offers limited grip. Despite these challenges, Superbike riders' performances improved session after session, resulting in new lap records, a new race lap record and faster overall race times.
Our decision to make our softer production-range solutions available therefore proved to be the right one. The SCQ extrasoft enabled Bulega to set a new outright lap record at the Estoril Circuit, while the SCX supersoft, chosen by every rider in all three races over the weekend, proved highly competitive in all conditions.
Congratulations to Bulega, whose hat-trick this weekend set a new record for the most victories in a single season, and to Riichi Takahira, who clinched the Yamaha R3 World Cup title after a championship battle that remained open until the final race. Recognition is also due to Yamaha, which has invested in this category for many years. The series represents an important step in the development and competitive training of young riders aspiring to become professionals.
Next weekend, we head to Jerez de la Frontera for the final round of the FIM Superbike World Championship season, with two world titles still to be decided: the Women's World Championship and the Sportbike World Championship”.

Charles Leclerc finished second, while Lewis Hamilton secured the third-fastest time with a 1:31.496. The Briton also set his best lap on his first Q3 run, whereas his team-mate improved on his second attempt in the final part of qualifying, stopping the clock at 1:31.427. All three drivers completed two flying laps in the final session, using two new sets of Soft tyres.

For Max Verstappen, this is his first pole position at the Singapore circuit, where he has yet to claim a race victory. No rain is currently forecast for tomorrow’s Grand Prix.

However, rain played a significant role ahead of the Sprint, creating standing water in several corners and forcing Race Control to delay the start. When the race eventually got underway, the track was still damp in several areas, prompting all drivers to opt for Intermediate tyres. The green-banded tyres proved to be the ideal choice throughout the race, given the particularly tricky conditions. In the short race, Max Verstappen took the win ahead of Lewis Hamilton in second and Charles Leclerc in third.

The Pirelli Pole Position Award was presented by HYO. The South Korean singer, dancer and DJ first rose to fame as a member of Girls’ Generation, one of the most successful K-pop groups of all time, before establishing herself as an internationally acclaimed DJ.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“The conditions faced by the drivers during the Sprint were challenging because rainfall had affected only part of the circuit, effectively leaving half of the track very wet while the other half was already drying. The Intermediate tyres used at the start remained on the cars until the chequered flag and delivered remarkably consistent performance throughout the race distance. Despite the track evolving towards near-slick conditions in the closing stages, degradation remained extremely limited and the graining we observed, particularly on the front axle, had no significant impact on performance. Managing tyre temperatures was a key factor, especially in the final laps, but overall tyre wear remained fully under control.

The track still featured some damp sections during qualifying, resulting in less than ideal conditions. Teams adopted different approaches when preparing the Soft tyre. Some elected to complete an additional preparation lap to bring the tyres into their optimum operating window, as Mercedes did in Q3, although no significant advantage emerged compared to rivals who opted to push immediately on a flying lap. Once again, it was clear that tyre management is an essential part of the overall package, closely linked to both the characteristics of the car and the driver’s style.

In our view, the C5 represents the most interesting option for the start of tomorrow’s race, which could be heavily influenced by any Safety Car periods. The higher level of grip offered by the Soft in the opening phase should make it the preferred choice for most drivers, who may look to extend the first stint, aided by the low degradation levels, while waiting for a favourable neutralisation. For the second part of the race, the Medium and Hard offer relatively similar performance, although the C4 could provide an advantage in terms of grip. At present, a two-stop strategy appears unlikely, as it is estimated to be around ten seconds slower than the available one-stop alternatives.”

Record-breaking pace and a well-deserved title for Arenas
 
"First of all, I would like to congratulate Albert Arenas and the AS BLU CRU Racing Team on winning the WorldSSP Riders’ Championship. In his debut season in the category, Arenas has demonstrated great maturity and speed, together with outstanding consistency, as reflected in his 16 podium finishes across the 22 races held so far.
Race 1 confirmed the highly competitive nature of the category, with three different manufacturers represented in the top four. Performance improved steadily throughout the weekend, with riders making increasingly effective use of the potential offered by the standard-range supersoft SCX rear tyre, as demonstrated by the new lap records set in qualifying and in the race.
In WorldSBK, we also recorded a significant improvement compared with last year’s event, as shown by the new all-time qualifying lap record, the new fastest race lap and the reduction in overall race time. These performances were achieved using the same extrasoft and supersoft rear solutions as last year: at the time, these were development tyres in specifications E0479 and E0126, whereas they have now become the standard-range SCQ and SCX, respectively. These results are all the more significant given that rising temperatures and stronger winds considerably reduced the grip level of the asphalt". 

Positive debut for Moto2™ development soft rear tyre

“Track conditions at Mandalika improved progressively over the first two days and, combined with the tyres’ excellent performance in the extremely high temperatures, allowed new all-time lap records to be set in both classes.
The new F0515 development soft rear tyre made its Moto2™ debut this weekend. It shares its compound with the standard SC0 but features a completely new carcass. Rider feedback was very positive, particularly regarding its greater consistency over race distance and the improved grip it offers on both corner entry and exit. The standard SC0 also delivered excellent single-lap performance, as demonstrated by Guevara’s record-breaking pole position. For the race, however, we expect most riders to favour the new F0515 for its greater consistency, paired with the SC1 front tyre used by every rider throughout the sessions so far.
Moto3™ also saw an exceptionally fast pace, with Quiles setting a new lap record in FP2 and lowering the previous benchmark by more than three tenths of a second. Looking ahead to the race, the SC1 and SC2 front tyres delivered a very similar performance, leaving the choice down to rider preference. At the rear, long-run analysis indicates that soft SC1 and medium SC2 offer similar performance for around 12–14 laps, with the medium SC2 expected to provide greater consistency in the closing stages of the race”.

Verstappen stopped the clocks at 1m31.156s, while Russell recorded a 1m31.276s. The Mercedes driver completed two flying laps on the same set of new tyres, setting his best time on the second attempt, as did Leclerc. Russell opted for a sequence of one flying lap, two cool-down laps and then a second flying lap, while the Ferrari driver chose one flying lap, one cool-down lap and then a second attempt.

Russell was also fastest in FP1 on the C5 compound. The Mercedes driver posted a 1m32.274s lap. Behind him were Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris, both of whom set their respective best times on the softest compound in the range.

Max Verstappen finished the opening track session in sixth place, the fastest of the drivers who set their best lap on the Medium compound. Nico Hülkenberg was the only driver to record his best performance on the Hard tyre. The C3 was used extensively, with all 20 drivers running the compound during the opening hour of track action.

The street circuit still required rubber to be laid down during FP1, and track evolution was particularly significant along the racing line throughout the session. With this being a Sprint weekend, teams focused much of their work on qualifying simulations, devoting less attention to race pace runs.

SIMONE BERRA – PIRELLI CHIEF ENGINEER

“The level of track evolution was very significant from the very first session. If the circuit continues to improve at this rate, it is entirely possible that lap times tomorrow could be even quicker than initially forecast.

From a tyre perspective, the factor that most differentiated the teams was warm-up. The combination of a green track and relatively low energy levels made temperature management more challenging for some teams, regardless of tyre compound. Others, however, were able to bring the tyres into the correct operating window very quickly, allowing them to push from the very first flying lap in qualifying.

Today, teams focused more on single-lap performance than race pace because, with moderate temperatures and limited degradation, qualifying is likely to carry greater importance than race management. Between the C4 and C5 compounds, we measured a performance delta of around eight to nine tenths of a second, which is broadly in line with our expectations.

One interesting aspect was the different approaches to qualifying lap preparation. Every team and driver adopted different strategies in terms of managing their attempts and cooling the tyres, while still extracting the best lap time available to them.

It highlights just how different the cars and driving styles are, and how they can therefore require different approaches while still maximising the potential of the C5. Balance and the ability to bring the front axle up to temperature quickly were certainly key factors today.

Looking ahead to tomorrow’s Sprint, both the Medium and Soft compounds appear to be viable options. This could lead to a split in strategy and add another interesting dimension to the short race.”

Both Austin and Mexico City saw an attempt last year to make a bigger step on the Hard compound. In Austin, the C1 was nominated as the white-marked tyre, while in Mexico the C2 was chosen, with Medium and Soft remaining the same as this year's selection. However, the teams opted to make extensive use of the two softer options rather than trying to save a pit stop by running the Hard.

This year's selection for São Paulo is softer than in 2025 when, once again, the Hard saw little use in the race, with teams favouring two-stop strategies based around the Medium and Soft compounds. The softest trio could significantly broaden the range of strategic options available to teams at Interlagos, encouraging scenarios in which all three compounds are used during the race.

Head-to-head comparison between two soft rear tyres at Mandalika
 
“As at several rounds this year, also in Indonesia we will continue our Moto2™ development work. After focusing on front tyre specifications at the most recent Grands Prix, we will introduce a new soft rear solution at Mandalika. With its highly macro-rough asphalt and temperatures that can exceed 60°C, the circuit places the tyres under severe thermal stress, making it a particularly valuable proving ground for testing new solutions.
The F0515 development specification, which will make its debut this weekend, uses the same compound as the standard SC0 but pairs it with a newly developed structure designed to deliver greater stability and more consistent performance.
Completing the rear allocation will be the standard SC0, successfully used by almost the entire field in 2025, when it was introduced as development specification E0125. Having both solutions available will allow a direct comparison over the course of the weekend and enable us to gather valuable data to support the next stages of development.”

The 4.940-kilometre track features the typical characteristics of a street circuit, with barriers close to the racing line and limited overtaking opportunities. However, the changes introduced in 2023 to the third sector increased the number of high-speed sections, making the lap smoother and faster than in the past. Despite the presence of some straights, the circuit remains defined by numerous braking and traction phases thanks to its 19 corners, allowing modern power units to recover energy throughout the lap.

Marina Bay has a medium-to-high level of surface roughness for a street circuit, both in terms of macro- and micro-roughness. As no resurfacing work has been carried out, values are expected to be broadly in line with last season's, if not slightly higher. Track evolution will be significant over the course of the weekend. Intermittent rainfall, typical of the equatorial climate, will also influence grip levels and can alter conditions from one session to the next.

As is well known, the race takes place at night, with track temperatures ranging between 30 and 35 °C. Under these conditions, the tyres tend to operate within their working window without any particular overheating concerns. Mechanical stress is not especially high and the expected degradation will mainly be linked to the normal performance drop-off of the rear axle during traction phases. Graining and wear are also not expected to become limiting factors in race management.

For these reasons, from a strategic perspective Singapore remains one of the races in which a one-stop strategy is the preferred option for teams, also considering the time lost in the pit lane and the frequent likelihood of neutralisations. While Hard and Medium are once again expected to be the reference compounds for the race, this year the Soft could receive greater consideration on Sunday from more than one team.

The softest compound in the range has demonstrated at Budapest, Monza and Baku, where it was used, that it allows drivers to maintain a strong pace thanks to limited degradation, while also offering an advantage in terms of grip and confidence behind the wheel. These characteristics could prove even more valuable on a circuit such as Singapore, which is also known for its significant track evolution.

The latest-generation cars also appear to make better use of the softer compounds. Aerodynamic load, more effective temperature management and the formulation of the current compounds allow the softer end of the range to be used for longer and more competitive stints than in the past. With this in mind, it would come as no surprise to see the red-sidewalled tyre used in Saturday’s Sprint or, more generally, to witness more extensive use of the C5 throughout the weekend, encouraged by the Sprint format itself.

IN 2025

Medium and Soft were the two compounds chosen by teams for the opening part of the race, with 14 drivers starting on the C4 and the remainder on the C5. The Hard was ruled out because the track was still damp following the rain that had fallen earlier in the afternoon. The C3 then became the preferred compound for the second stint. Almost the entire grid completed a one-stop race, with only three drivers opting for a two-stop strategy.

STATISTICS

The upcoming race will be the seventeenth edition of the Singapore Grand Prix. The event has been held continuously since 2008, with the only interruption caused by the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. The drivers with the most victories on the Marina Bay street circuit are Sebastian Vettel (5) and Lewis Hamilton (4), both of whom have started from pole position four times. Among the constructors, Mercedes leads the way with five victories.

PODIUM CAP

The cap that drivers will wear on the podium of the Singapore Grand Prix will feature an orchid-inspired design. This flower is particularly celebrated in Singapore for its ability to thrive in conditions of heat, humidity and heavy rainfall, turning fragility into resilience. The special edition Pirelli Podium Cap is produced by Pirelli Design and signed by designer Denis Dekovic. The special edition is already available for purchase on Pirelli's e-commerce platform: https://store.pirelli.com.

Estoril, a technical and unpredictable circuit
 
“Estoril is a circuit we know very well, as it has hosted the FIM Superbike World Championship, albeit with some interruptions, since the late 1980s. In terms of its layout and asphalt characteristics, with the last complete resurfacing dating back to 2006, it is a track that has historically not offered particularly high levels of grip, while placing different types of demands on the tyres. The circuit’s geographical location, not far from the coast, is another factor that needs to be taken into consideration, with the possibility of rainfall and sudden temperature changes potentially requiring teams and riders to react quickly with their bike set-up.
“Last year, precisely because of these characteristics, we provided riders with two rear development solutions: the E0479 extrasoft and the E0126 supersoft. Both were immediately appreciated, delivering significant improvements both over a single lap and across race distance. These two specifications were subsequently promoted to range tyres, making them available to all motorcyclists, and they are being offered again for this round. It will be interesting to see whether the performance growth recorded throughout this season is confirmed this weekend as well".

Milan, 5 October 2026 – Developed specifically for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+, recently unveiled as the first Official FIA F1^® Safety Car equipped with fully variable all-wheel drive, the new Pirelli P Zero R is an ultra-high-performance tyre that combines dry-weather ‘qualifying-level’ performance with an extremely precise steering response, while ensuring safe handling in wet conditions. This P Zero R has been developed to deliver consistent performance during Safety Car deployments in Formula 1®, when precision, reliability and control become paramount.

This ability to deliver high levels of performance in both dry and wet conditions is the result of a dual-compound tread and, thanks to virtualisation, the development of specific tread pattern details designed to optimise performance on this particular vehicle. The tyre is the result of co-development with engineers from Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach and has been refined using the virtual simulation models that are a key part of Pirelli’s development process. The two compounds, the land-to-groove ratio and the width of the tread pattern channels have all been designed to work in synergy with the vehicle’s suspension geometry and camber, optimising the tyre’s contact patch in different driving conditions. This helps maximise grip and enhance steering precision, while increasing high-speed stability without compromising performance on wet surfaces.

The project is part of Pirelli’s role in Formula 1® as the sport’s sole tyre supplier since 2011, a position recently confirmed by the FIA and Formula 1® and extended through to 2028. The relationship dates back to the inaugural race in 1950 and, over the years, Pirelli has accompanied the technical evolution of the FIA Formula One World Championship™, reaching the milestone of 500 Grands Prix in 2025. The experience gained on track, including in the most extreme conditions, provides Pirelli with a laboratory for innovation whose findings are also reflected in the development of road tyres.

Bespoke development

The 21-inch P Zero R for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ was designed by Pirelli to put all the power of its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine onto the road. The engine delivers 450 kW (612 hp) and 850 Nm of maximum torque. The car has been conceived to offer high levels of performance and drivability, also thanks to the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, which requires tyres capable of coping with rapid load transfers while allowing the car to exploit its high dynamic potential. The P Zero R enhances these characteristics through its high level of grip, precise response and consistency of performance, making it an ideal tyre for track use as well.

Testing phase

This product – the first P Zero R developed specifically for a Mercedes-AMG – underwent extensive testing at the Nürburgring and Nardò, with the participation of AMG brand ambassador and Official FIA F1^® Safety Car Driver Bernd Mayländer as well as other experienced Safety Car drivers. They praised the tyre’s consistency of performance and high level of grip across a wide range of conditions.

The project confirms the long-standing collaboration between Pirelli and Mercedes-AMG in the development of high-performance tyres. This is based on a co-development process that combines the expertise of the two brands from the earliest stages of vehicle development and has so far resulted in more than 150 fitments. In line with the Perfect Fit approach, the tyre specification for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ is identified by the ‘MO1’ marking on the sidewall, indicating that it has been specifically developed for this model.

The previous Official FIA F1® Safety Car from the performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, which served in the role from 2022 to 2026, was also equipped with Pirelli P Zero tyres.

The latest milestone in the collaboration between Pirelli and Mercedes-AMG was the Nürburgring Nordschleife record set by the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+, equipped with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tyres. With a time of 7:32.070 minutes, the sporty four-door saloon claimed the title of the fastest vehicle in its segment on the legendary German circuit.

Published on: 5 October 2026, 11:00 CET

The Bahrain Grand Prix was full of incidents, starting with a delayed start. Race Control postponed the start due to standing water in several corners of the circuit. When the race finally got under way, still in difficult conditions, there was significant variation in tyre choices: nine drivers opted for Intermediates, while the remainder of the field selected either Softs or Mediums.

From the opening laps it was clear that the track was still too wet for slick tyres. A further six drivers therefore quickly pitted to switch to Intermediates. After nine laps, the Safety Car was deployed following Valtteri Bottas’ off-track excursion. At the restart, with the asphalt almost dry, all drivers returned to action on slick tyres. Over the course of the race, every compound in the range was used except the Full Wet.

Verstappen quickly built a margin over the two Mercedes drivers but saw his advantage wiped out by a Virtual Safety Car that was later upgraded to a full Safety Car. The Red Bull driver had in fact stopped ten laps before the neutralisation to fit a set of Softs. Both he and Kimi Antonelli, who eventually finished second, took advantage of the VSC to make an additional stop and fit another set of used Softs.

In the closing laps, Verstappen managed to hold off Antonelli and secure the victory. Lewis Hamilton finished third for Ferrari. The Ferrari driver was one of the few not to use Intermediates, choosing instead to start directly on Softs, on which he completed 31 laps. He then switched to a used set of Mediums before making a final stop during the Virtual Safety Car period for a set of used Softs, which he ran to the chequered flag.

Antonelli therefore followed an Intermediate-Medium-Soft-Soft strategy, while Verstappen opted for Intermediate-Soft-Soft-Soft, with Hamilton completing the race on Soft-Medium-Soft. The Sepang podium therefore featured three drivers from three different teams, each using a different strategy.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“Sepang provided the first real opportunity this season to see significant use of the Intermediate tyre. In the conditions encountered today, its performance was positive, delivering a high level of grip and consistent performance throughout its stint length. In the closing laps, as the track continued to dry, a slight amount of graining appeared on the wet-weather tyres, although there were no particular wear concerns despite the highly abrasive surface.

The environmental conditions played a decisive role in the Malaysian Grand Prix. Temperatures were noticeably lower than those recorded in previous days and, following the downpour before the start, the track remained damp for much of the race. This helped keep tyre temperatures under control and reduced thermal degradation.

In this scenario, the Soft proved particularly competitive, enabling very long stints and delivering consistent performance, helped by teams gradually bringing it into the operating window tested on Friday. Some drivers managed to cover almost half the race on the softest compound, while the neutralisations prompted many teams to opt for the C4 in the closing stages. Both the Hard and Medium also displayed consistent and predictable behaviour, albeit with lower grip levels than the Soft, confirming themselves as viable options for both the frontrunning teams and those in the midfield.”

Extremely fast races, new records and consistent tyre performance
 
“The Japanese Grand Prix’s conclusion has been extremely positive for Pirelli. On Motegi’s new asphalt - one of the weekend’s main unknown variables - the entire range delivered a consistently high performance, with the riders exploiting their full potential over a single lap and across the race distance. The timing data confirms how effective the solutions we brought to the track actually were: new race lap records were set in both classes, with improvements of more than 1.2 seconds in Moto2™ and almost six tenths in Moto3™. Even more significant is the comparison over the full race distance, with Moto2™ being more than 35 seconds faster than in 2025’s, and Moto3™ improving its race time by over 24 seconds.
In Moto2™, the new 2026-specification rear SCX tyre’s contribution was significant. Its supersoft compound proved well suited to the new asphalt’s characteristics, delivering high levels of grip and consistent performance throughout the race. In Moto3™, we received further confirmation of how much our range is versatile. With every possible combination of the soft SC1 and medium SC2 front and rear compounds being used in the race, we provide a broad range of options to the teams. In terms of results, those combos with medium SC2 tyres on both axles proved particularly effective, although Almansa still took home the race with SC1 tyres at the front. Finally, providing further evidence of the tyres’ consistent performance, Uriarte set the new race lap record on the penultimate lap, when the tyres had travelled almost the entire race distance”.