With the new Pirelli fitment, the BMW M2 with M Performance Track Kit and the BMW M3 CS Touring have set new records at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The BMW M2 with M Performance Track Kit, which combines street legal driving pleasure with an optimized set-up designed to provide greater precision during track days, recorded a lap time of 7:25.068 minutes, lowering the Nürburgring compact car record, previously held by the M2 CS, by 0.5 seconds. The BMW M3 CS Touring, meanwhile, completed the lap in 7:29.490, becoming the fastest Touring car ever around the legendary German circuit and beating the previous record by almost six seconds. The Nürburgring Nordschleife was also the main venue for the development of this P Zero Trofeo RS. The circuit is recognized as one of the most demanding tracks in the world, with its 20.832-kilometre length and more than 70 corners presenting an extreme challenge for both drivers and cars. Over time, it has become a global benchmark for assessing the dynamic capabilities of different models.

The bespoke development programme is the result of close collaboration between Pirelli and BMW M’s R&D teams. Thanks to advanced virtual development techniques, the two teams were able to adapt the tyre’s characteristics to the different requirements from the earliest stages of the project, in line with Pirelli’s Perfect Fit approach, which aims to create products tailored to each specific model or application. Following the virtual phase, the development process moved on to track testing, with sessions held at the Nardò test circuit as well as at the Nürburgring, where the solutions identified through simulation were validated in real-world conditions.

All fitments developed by Pirelli for the Munich-based manufacturer feature BMW’s star marking, confirming their homologation and ensuring that the tyres meet the manufacturer’s stringent performance and safety requirements. The longstanding partnership with BMW M is further strengthened by these new fitments and now encompasses more than 30 bespoke tyre projects across the P Zero family: from the latest-generation P Zero, delivering performance and safety, to P Zero R, designed for the most high-performance cars while also suited to everyday driving; from P Zero Trofeo RS to P Zero Winter 2, developed for winter conditions.

P ZERO TROFEO RS

Launched in 2023 initially as original equipment for supercars and hypercars, the P Zero Trofeo RS semi-slick is the most performance-oriented tyre in the Pirelli P Zero family. It was developed to transfer almost 120 years of Pirelli’s motorsport experience “from track to road”, combining the latest technologies, cutting-edge materials and customizable multi-compound solutions. The P Zero Trofeo RS maintains a high level of performance over time, enabling drivers to safely exploit the full potential of their cars, for example during track days. Although designed for track use, Pirelli engineers have worked to broaden the tyre’s operating range, ensuring a high level of safety even on wet asphalt.

Published on: 9 November 2026, 11:00 CET

Temperatures remained low throughout the day, with the track reaching just 16 °C at the start. All drivers elected to begin the race on Intermediates, as the circuit was wet and light rain continued to fall during the opening laps. After 14 laps, the first drivers began to pit to switch to Soft tyres.

Norris came into the pits on lap 16 and then completed a 33-lap stint on the Soft. He later made a further stop for a new set of the same compound, which he used for only 13 laps. The 2025 World Champion was then forced to return to the pit lane for another set of Intermediates after rain began to fall again over Interlagos.

Second-placed Max Verstappen and third-placed Isack Hadjar adopted a similar strategy, using one set of Intermediates, two sets of Softs and then another new set of Intermediates. This approach enabled them to join Norris on the podium.

The two Mercedes drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, finished fourth and fifth respectively. Their results secured the points needed for the German team to clinch the Constructors’ World Championship title. Russell and Charles Leclerc also completed the highest number of laps on a single set of Soft tyres, with both the Briton and the Monegasque managing 45 laps on the same set.

The pair opted for a different strategy compared to the top three finishers, stopping on lap 16 to switch from Intermediates to Softs. After completing 45 laps on that set, they fitted a second set of Soft tyres for the final ten laps of the race.

Today, all Pirelli personnel present at Interlagos wore a special uniform to celebrate the company’s history in Formula 1 and its long and significant association with the championship. Pirelli is the tyre supplier with the greatest number of Grand Prix appearances and, this year, reached the record for the highest number of pole positions achieved on its tyres. After last weekend’s Grand Prix, it also added another chapter to that story by becoming the tyre supplier with the most victories in Formula 1 history. The uniform was inspired by the first shirt worn by Pirelli personnel when the company returned to the championship in 2011.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“Variable weather conditions had a decisive impact on race strategy. Rain before the start left the track with markedly different levels of grip around the lap, making the Intermediate tyre the only viable choice for the opening stint. In these transitional conditions, as the circuit moved from wet to dry, the Intermediate delivered consistent performance and, as the track continued to evolve, tyre lap times progressively closed in on the crossover point for the slicks. We observed predominantly thermal degradation, accompanied by episodes of graining caused by the drying surface, particularly on the right-hand side of the car.

Once conditions allowed the switch to dry-weather tyres, the Soft confirmed itself as the preferred choice for every team. The relatively low air and track temperatures helped keep degradation under control, to the extent that wear became the main factor to manage in many cases. Some teams were evaluating the possibility of reaching the finish without making any further stops, but the return of rain in the closing stages once again reshuffled the strategic picture. Overall, both the Intermediate and the Soft performed in line with expectations, offering teams several strategic options in a race defined by uncertainty over the conditions.

Congratulations to Mercedes on securing the ninth Constructors’ Championship in its history. It is an achievement that reflects the team’s technical excellence and the quality of work carried out throughout the season, further enhanced by the Drivers’ World Championship title secured by Kimi Antonelli last weekend.”

· Chishiki crowned Moto4 Asia Cup champion. 15-year-old Japanese rider Hayato Chishiki was crowned Moto4 Asia Cup champion, after claiming five victories this season. His seventh place in the final race of the year, won by Kotaro Togashi, was enough to secure the title. All Moto4 Asia Cup riders opted for DIABLO™ Superbike tyres in the medium SC2 compound, both front and back.

Qatar’s races significantly faster than ever

“Lusail is a particularly challenging circuit for tyres: the wide temperature offset and sand on the track can significantly increase wear, making tyre management crucial to control the race pace.
Holgado and Almansa adapted very well to these conditions, making the most of the soft SC1 front tyre. All in all, the most significant aspect for us was seeing both the soft and medium front options prove competitive in Moto2™ and Moto3™, as reflected in the different choices made by podium finishers. By providing two effective options at such a demanding circuit, we have proven our range’s versatility and helped each rider choose the tyre that best suits their riding style and bike set-up.
After three seasons, riders are becoming increasingly familiar with our tyres and are masterfully unlocking their potential. This is why races were noticeably faster than in previous years, with lap-time improvements of almost a second in Moto2™ and around half a second in Moto3™. Another factor that led to this result in Moto2™ was the new soft SC0 rear from the 2026 range, delivering consistently high performances across a range of conditions.
Finally, I would like to congratulate young Hayato Chishiki on winning the Moto4 Asia Cup.”

As a result, the session start was delayed but, once Race Control deemed conditions safe, all drivers headed out on Full Wet tyres.

The result was a fiercely contested Q1, followed by a Q2 in which the field gradually switched to Intermediates, which were also used throughout Q3 in the continuous search for performance. With track temperatures dropping to as low as 20 °C, Lando Norris set the fastest time in Q3, stopping the clock at 1:12.470.

Behind him, George Russell secured second place with a time of 1:27.674, while Kimi Antonelli recorded the third-fastest lap in 1:28.095. During qualifying, Norris used two new sets of Full Wets and two sets of Intermediates. Russell and Antonelli each used one new set of Full Wets and two new sets of Intermediates.

Conditions in FP3 had been markedly different, with track temperatures reaching 47 °C, although accompanied by wind gusts of up to 30 km/h. Max Verstappen set the fastest time of the session in 1:11.622, ahead of Kimi Antonelli (1:11.647) and Lando Norris (1:11.753).

The quickest laps came in the second half of the session during qualifying simulations on the Soft compound. In the opening part of FP3, all drivers had run on the Medium tyre.

The Pirelli Pole Position Award was presented by Alexandre Pato. The former Brazilian footballer enjoyed a successful spell with AC Milan, winning both the Serie A title and the Italian Super Cup. With the Brazil national team, he won the FIFA Confederations Cup and earned two Olympic medals.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“Today’s qualifying session provided a clear demonstration of wet-weather racing, with the cars able to exploit the Full Wet tyre during the opening phase when track conditions remained particularly challenging. The extreme wet tyre enabled running to resume after the delay, confirming its effectiveness even in the most demanding conditions and allowing the drivers to maintain a strong level of performance.

Equally significant was the switch to Intermediates at the start of the second session. Thanks to the development work carried out over recent years on the crossover window, the Full Wet was able to remain effective even once standing water had disappeared from the circuit, making the subsequent transition to Intermediates particularly smooth as track conditions continued to improve.

Current forecasts indicate a 60% chance of rain for tomorrow’s race, meaning a scenario similar to today’s cannot be ruled out should the Grand Prix take place wholly or partly on a wet track. In dry conditions, however, the most meaningful indications come from Friday’s second free practice session, the only one that provided representative long-run data.

Analysis of the long runs has led us to revise the simulations carried out before the weekend. Wear proved higher than expected, resulting in greater performance loss over the course of a stint. For this reason, a two-stop strategy emerges as the preferred option, featuring two stints on Soft and one on Medium. This combination is estimated to offer an advantage of around three seconds over strategies involving all three available compounds. Using the Hard tyre alongside two Soft stints would result in a further increase in overall race time.

The lower temperatures expected on Sunday, combined with the possibility of a track offering less grip than was seen on Friday, could further favour the softer compounds, which provide greater grip and come up to temperature more quickly. A one-stop strategy appears significantly less competitive, with an estimated race time around ten seconds slower than the optimum two-stop approach. In this context, the undercut could prove decisive, particularly for drivers switching to a softer compound, as they would be able to exploit the immediate gain in grip to make up track position.”

All-time Moto2™ lap record set with new 2026 soft rear tyre

“Escrig’s new all-time Moto2™ lap record is especially meaningful for Pirelli, as it was set using the new standard soft SC0 rear tyre, which differs from the version employed at this circuit in 2025. Beating the previous record by over a second, the 2026 SC0 takes an incredible step forward performance-wise.
Although this year’s Qatar Grand Prix is taking place in early November rather than April, temperatures are broadly in line with the last two editions. Between the early afternoon and evening sessions, track temperatures drop by around 15°C. Despite the lower temperatures and wind-blown sand on the track increasing tyre wear, especially when it comes to softer compounds, single-lap performance has improved. It is no coincidence that Practice and qualifying, which were both held after sunset, were the fastest sessions.
Under these conditions, riders were able to exploit the softer compounds to set their best lap times. However, consistent performance and tyre management over the race distance will be key, so tyre choices may differ. Just like in previous editions, we expect all Moto2™ riders to choose soft SC0 rear tyres, and to increasingly lean into the medium SC2 front option, compared to qualifying. However, in Moto3™, the medium SC2 tyre will likely be the most popular option at both ends, due to a more consistent performance over the race distance, compared with the soft SC1.”

All three set their best laps on the Soft compound. During FP2, Antonelli and Norris ran both the Hard and the C5, while Verstappen opted for the Medium and Soft. Overall, the red-banded tyre was the most widely used, although both the Hard and Medium also saw significant track time.

Norris was quickest in FP1. The McLaren driver topped the opening hour of running with a 1:11.717, ahead of Antonelli in second on a 1:11.799 and Verstappen in third with a 1:11.953. Apart from Oscar Piastri, all drivers began the day on either the Medium or Hard compound. As in FP2, all three available compounds were used during the first free practice session.

While track temperatures at Interlagos peaked at 44°C in the morning, they dropped significantly in the afternoon, reaching a low of 28°C by the end of FP2. Similar conditions are expected tomorrow to those seen during the second session, although there remains a chance of showers.

SIMONE BERRA – PIRELLI CHIEF ENGINEER

“The two free practice sessions were held in very different conditions, providing teams with valuable information ahead of the next two days. In FP1, the higher temperatures led to increased thermal degradation and greater tyre sliding, particularly on the C3. As a result, much of the race simulation work was carried out on the C4 and C5, often with little tyre management, as teams sought to explore their operating limits. Even in these conditions, all three compounds came up to performance quickly from the opening laps, with no significant warm-up issues.

The second session took place in considerably cooler temperatures and under changeable weather conditions. Some teams experienced greater difficulty bringing the front tyres up to temperature during qualifying simulations, while long-run performance appeared more favourable thanks to reduced overheating and lower degradation levels. The Soft delivered particularly consistent behaviour and confirmed a strong level of performance.

The absence of graining and similar abrasion levels across all three compounds suggest that degradation will continue to be driven primarily by thermal effects, with wear on the rear-right tyre becoming a factor over longer stints. With forecasts indicating even cooler temperatures for Sunday and a greater than 60% chance of rain, all options remain open at this stage, including wet-weather scenarios. In dry conditions, a two-stop strategy also appears viable, given the relative ease of overtaking at Interlagos. We will continue to analyse the data from the upcoming sessions before reaching any definitive conclusions.”

ADJUSTED EBIT MARGIN AT 15.9% IN LINE WITH 2026 TARGET OF AROUND 16%

TARGETS COMMUNICATED IN JULY CONFIRMED NOTWITHSTANDING THE WORSENING OF

THE EXTERNAL CONTEXT

***

BOARD APPROVES NEW EMTN PROGRAM OF 2 BILLION EURO

***

First nine months 2026

- Revenues: 5,278.0 million euro, with organic growth of 2.7% excluding the combined effect of forex and hyper-inflation (-0.8%) and change of scope of consolidation (-0.3%). Including these effects, +1.6% compared with first nine months of 2025 (5,195.2 million euro);

- Further strengthening of High Value (82% of sales, 79% in first nine months of 2025);

- Price/Mix: +3.2%, supported by ongoing improvement of product mix and regional mix, and by price component;

- Adjusted Ebit: 840.8 million euro (835.5 million euro in first nine months of 2025), with a substantially stable margin at 15.9%;

- Net profit: +7.4% at 430.2 million euro (400.6 million euro in first nine months of 2025);

- Net cash flow before dividends and corporate transactions in China at -383.9 million euro (-362.5 million euro in first nine months of 2025);

- Net financial position: -2,162.9 million euro (-2,537.9 million euro on 30 September 2025 and -1,102.0 million euro on 31 December 2025).

Third quarter 2026

- Revenues: 1,783.5 million euro, with organic growth of 3.0% compared with the same period in 2025 excluding the combined effect of forex and hyper-inflation (+2.1%). Including these effects, +5.1% compared with third quarter 2025 (1,696.6 million euro);

- Price/Mix: +4.6%, thanks to the ongoing improvement of the product, geographical and channel mix and the positive contribution of the price component;

- Adjusted Ebit: +2.1% at 283.0 million euro (277.2 million euro for third quarter 2025), with a margin at 15.9%;

- Net profit: 131.2 million euro (136.6 million euro in third quarter 2025);

- Net cash flow before dividends and corporate transactions in China: +173.0 million euro (+141.2 million euro in third quarter 2025).

***

Milan, 5 November 2026 – The Board of Directors of Pirelli & C. S.p.A. met today and majority approved the results to 30 September 2026, with the contrary vote of board members Zhang Haitao, Xi Xiaohong and Wang Kun because of the declaration of control by MTP Spa contained in the financial report.

The results in the first nine months of 2026 confirm the solidity and resilience of Pirelli’s business model in a context characterized by persisting geopolitical tensions, slowing demand and inflationary pressure on the key input costs.

In particular:

- Commercial Program

In the first nine months of 2026 Pirelli consolidated its leadership in the High Value segment, recording total growth in High Value Car and Moto volumes of around 3%, gaining market share in both businesses. The performance was underpinned by the Replacement channel, with volumes growing by 4% and an acceleration in the third quarter (+6%, compared with +3% in the first half), a confirmation of the strength of the brand, of the high quality of the offering and the continuing appreciation of Pirelli products by consumers. In Original Equipment, volumes in the nine months grew by 1% after +5% in the first half and -7% in the third quarter. The performance in the third quarter was impacted by an unfavorable basis of comparison (when Original Equipment sales were supported by solid performances in North America and APAC), and the weakness of car production in Europe, North America and China, that latter also following the cessation of government incentives. In Standard volumes fell -9% in the first nine months and 11% in the third quarter, in line with the strategy of growing selectivity above all in South America because of the reduction of exposure to segments with lower margins.

The performance described above translates into slightly lower total volumes in the first nine months (-0.5%).

In the third quarter, volumes declined by 1.6%, in line with the second quarter, reflecting the persisting weakness of demand in the Original Equipment channel and the above-mentioned reduction in Standard exposure

- Innovation Program

In the first nine months of 2026 Pirelli garnered around 350 new homologations with the main Premium and Prestige car makers, with a marked focus on rim sizes ≥19 inches (90% of the total), Specialties (70%) and electric vehicles (60% between BEV and PHEV). The new homologations include those for the Ferrari Luce, the marque’s first electric model, Rivian R2S, the new Audi Q7 and Q9 SUVs, BMW iX4, Range Rover Electric, the Aito 9 and Zeekr 9X. In the third quarter, in addition, the product portfolio was further broadened with the launch in Europe, in Car replacement, of the new Scorpion Winter 3, developed through virtualization and driving simulators. Pirelli’s technological leadership was further confirmed in leading European comparative tests, including the first-place position of the Cinturato Winter 3 in the ADAC tests, the biggest European automobile club. Further, the development of the Cyber Tyre through strategic partnerships with Univrses, RideSense and Niulinx, with the goal of further strengthening the technological platform. The agreement with ABET HTS extends the application of technology to vehicles for defense and rescue in extreme environments, integrating data coming from the tyres with those generated by optic sensors and from the vehicle, to enable advanced real time monitoring and predictive functions through artificial intelligence.

- Efficiencies Program

In the first nine months of 2026 the group achieved gross benefits of 109.4 million euro, equal to 73% of the annual target and in line with expectations. The result reflects progress in product design and the improvement of industrial productivity. In light of the Middle East crisis and the consequent impact of the cost of raw materials, energy and transport, the company also successfully implemented mitigation initiatives, including actions on prices and further cost containment measures.

***

In the first nine months of 2026 Pirelli registered positive performances in the main economic indicators.

Revenues were 5,278.0 million euro, with organic growth of +2.7% excluding the combined effect of forex and the application of hyper-inflation accountancy (equal to -0.8%), as well as change in the scope of consolidation (-0.3% impact on revenues) following the sale of Däckia in the second quarter of 2025. Including these effects, revenues increased by +1.6% compared with the first nine months of 2025 (5,195.2 million euro). High Value represents 82% of total sales (79% in the first nine months of 2025).

In the third quarter of 2026 revenues amounted to 1,783.5 million euro, with organic growth of +3.0% excluding the combined effect of forex and the application of hyper-inflation accountancy (in total equal to +2.1%). Including these effects, revenues grew by +5.1% compared with 1,696.6 million euro in the third quarter of 2025.

Published on: 5 November 2026, 17:53 CET

ANGEL™ GT III builds on the legacy of the ANGEL™ family, which has helped to raise standards in the radial Sport Touring segment over the past fifteen years for motorcyclists seeking a balance of sporty performance, riding enjoyment and long-distance touring capability.

Available from early 2027, ANGEL™ GT III represents the fourth generation of the ANGEL™ family, which began with ANGEL™ ST and subsequently evolved with ANGEL™ GT and ANGEL™ GT II. The range has supported Pirelli’s steady expansion in the radial Sport Touring segment, one of the most important in the European market. Each generation has introduced technological and performance advances, earning growing recognition from riders and helping strengthen the brand’s presence in the segment.

Developed to meet the needs of modern mid- and large-displacement Sport Touring, Crossover and Naked motorcycles, ANGEL™ GT III was designed around a clear objective: to deliver Pirelli’s interpretation of the Gran Turismo riding experience, with a high level of control, comfort and riding enjoyment.

The new tyre stands out first and foremost for improvement in easier handling (soft handling), a characteristic particularly valued by riders using this category of tyres. Pirelli’s designers targeted the development of the tyre to help make the motorcycle feel more intuitive, smoother and less demanding to ride, both in everyday use and on long journeys, whilst keeping the precision and responsiveness characteristic of the brand’s sporting DNA.

Particular attention was also paid to wet performance, an area in which Pirelli worked to further strengthen its market position. ANGEL™ GT III was designed to deliver a strong sense of confidence and control on wet roads and in low-grip conditions, further raising the standards already achieved by the previous generations.

Another key focus of the tyre’s design was performance consistency throughout its service life. Thanks to extensive development work, ANGEL™ GT III was developed to deliver more uniform and consistent dynamic characteristics over time, even as wear increases, allowing riders to continue enjoying high levels of control and riding enjoyment over time.

Whilst improving comfort and ease of riding, ANGEL™ GT III remains true to Pirelli’s heritage and sporty DNA. Its focus on sport performance, steering precision and support during more spirited riding reaffirms the tyre’s distinctive character, allowing riders to enjoy a typical Pirelli experience, even over long distances.

Touring comfort has been further enhanced through dedicated work to reduce rolling noise of the rear tyre, an especially important consideration for those who use their motorcycles for touring and to cover long distances. The resulting reduced riding fatigue contributes not only to the enjoyment of the journey, but also to overall control.

Aesthetically, ANGEL™ GT III evolves the family’s visual identity whilst retaining its distinctive features. The new tread pattern revisits and reinterprets the signature graphic elements that have made the ANGEL™ range recognizable, creating a strong connection with its predecessors whilst expressing a clear evolution in styling.

The tyre also introduces a new high-contrast sidewall design, enhanced by the iconic ANGEL™ logo and Gran Turismo lettering, a direct reference to a concept deeply rooted in Italian motorcycling culture: travelling swiftly, comfortably and in style. ANGEL™ GT III authentically embodies this philosophy, combining a sporting soul with a touring spirit in a tyre designed to accompany riders on any road.

With ANGEL™ GT III, Pirelli opens a new chapter in its Sport Touring history, reaffirming its commitment to continued innovation and to raising the bar in the segment just as every generation of the ANGEL™ family has done since its debut.

The Brazilian circuit features several changes compared to last season. During the year, resurfacing work was carried out on the section between Turns 3 and 5 and between Turns 8 and 9. These newly surfaced areas could alter grip levels and track evolution over the course of the weekend, particularly affecting tyre behaviour over longer runs. The three free practice sessions will provide an opportunity to assess track evolution and understand how the new surface influences degradation and wear.

Twelve months ago, tyre degradation was one of the key technical factors in São Paulo. Although graining was less pronounced than initially expected, the C2 compound (used as the Hard tyre that year) showed some tendency to slide, while the C3 and C4 displayed significant degradation, albeit still allowing competitive stints. The most effective strategy proved to be a two-stop race.

In terms of tyre loads, Interlagos generates overall lateral forces that are broadly average, while combining several high-speed corners with long straights. The layout therefore does not place extreme demands on the tyres, with loads distributed fairly evenly between the front and rear axles.

The numerous overtaking opportunities offered by the circuit’s flowing layout give teams a degree of strategic flexibility, but managing degradation traditionally remains the key factor in maximising race performance. Finding the right balance between single-lap pace and tyre management over longer stints will be one of the main objectives of the teams’ trackside work during the Brazilian weekend.

It is also worth remembering that, because of the event’s position in the calendar, Interlagos is a circuit where rain and significant temperature fluctuations are often a factor. Intermediate and Full Wet tyres could therefore come into play in Brazil once again this year.

IN 2025

Medium and Soft were the preferred compounds at the 2025 São Paulo Grand Prix, which featured a wide variety of strategies. The most common approach was a two-stop race, adopted by the majority of teams due to tyre degradation levels and a number of early pit stops prompted by an initial neutralisation period. Pit windows varied from driver to driver, creating differing gaps that enhanced overtaking opportunities. Only two drivers completed the race with a single stop. The Hard compound was used for only a few short stints.

STATISTICS

A total of 42 Grands Prix have been held at Interlagos to date. Thirty-seven editions, from 1973 to 2019, carried the title of Brazilian Grand Prix before being renamed the São Paulo Grand Prix from 2021 onwards, for the last five editions. The most successful driver at the Brazilian venue is Michael Schumacher with four victories, while Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have each won three times. Ferrari and McLaren are the most successful teams, with nine wins apiece.

PODIUM CAP SPECIAL EDITION

The special-edition Podium Cap for the São Paulo Grand Prix is inspired by the blue shirt worn by the Brazilian national football team in 1958. The cap features a jaguar-pattern design, reflecting the coat of the jaguar, a symbolic animal that is widespread throughout the country. Created by designer Denis Dekovic for Pirelli Design, the cap is already available to purchase via Pirelli’s e-commerce platform: https://store.pirelli.com/.

At Lusail, finding the right balance between grip and wear is crucial
 
“Lusail is a distinctive circuit, not only because the races take place at night, but because sand from the surrounding desert, carried onto the track by the wind, can significantly reduce grip, while temperature variations between sessions and rising humidity as night falls can change track conditions and affect tyre wear. In these circumstances, it is essential for teams to progressively adapt their set-ups as the circuit evolves, while riders must manage their tyres effectively throughout the different stages of the race to preserve performance as much as possible until the closing laps.
The decision to confirm the standard-range solutions used in 2025 was based on the data collected and the results achieved last year, when we recorded significant progress, particularly in Moto2™, both over a single lap and in race pace. At the rear, the soft SC0 could be the benchmark solution. It will be interesting to see whether the new 2026 standard-range version offers riders any advantages over the one used in 2025. The medium SC1 could be a valid alternative if temperatures are significantly lower, especially as this year’s race takes place in November rather than the traditional April slot.
The front-tyre choice will be equally important, as this circuit places considerable demands on the front. The decision between the SC1 and SC2 will depend on the riders’ styles and the bikes’ set-ups”.

Among all-season tyres, Cinturato All Season SF3 continues its record run of success with the most awards in international tests 

Milan, 2 November 2026 – Just days after the launch of the new Scorpion Winter 3, Pirelli is approaching the seasonal tyre switch over with a winter range that has been completely renewed in the past two years, featuring products designed to optimise performance and safety on premium vehicles. Alongside the Scorpion Winter 3, developed for SUVs, the range includes the P Zero Winter 2 for high-performance cars and the Cinturato Winter 3 for saloons and crossovers. The range is also available with Pirelli Elect technology, designed for EVs, a fast-growing segment in Europe. This extensive renewal is confirmed by independent comparative tests conducted by leading European organisations and publications, in which Pirelli winter tyres have achieved victories and top positions thanks to benchmark performance in areas that matter most for safety^[1]. The success also extends to all-season tyres: the Cinturato All Season SF3, the all-season tyre with the most awards in independent tests^[2], has recorded four victories and six additional podium finishes in the latest European comparisons. 

GETTING READY FOR THE WINTER SEASON 

As every year, from 15 November to 15 April vehicles are required to use winter tyres or carry suitable winter equipment. When choosing tyres, reliability on different road surfaces matters, not only on snow: during winter, most kilometres are driven on dry and wet roads. Below 7°C, winter compounds, developed for cold temperatures, offer greater grip than summer compounds, while the tread pattern helps counter aquaplaning and generate traction on snow. Sidewall markings also deserve attention: M+S (Mud+Snow) identifies a product for challenging surfaces, while 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) certifies that the tyre has passed stringent tests in the harshest conditions. It is also important to adopt an appropriate  winter driving style: increase the safety distance, avoid sudden acceleration and reduce brake use in favour of engine braking. 

CINTURATO WINTER 3: SIX PODIUMS IN SEVEN COMPARATIVE TESTS AND THREE VICTORIES 

Cinturato Winter 3, the winter tyre for saloons and crossovers, took first place in the 2026 winter tyre test by ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club), Europe’s largest automobile club. In size 225/50 R17, against 16 models, it earned a “highly recommended” rating thanks to the best score in the wet and the highest assessment for driving safety. Described as very well balanced, it also delivered strong results in efficiency and wear. It also won the AvD (Automobilclub von Deutschland) test: in size 225/45 R17, against 15 tyres, it was named Testsieger (test winner) with a “very good” rating, thanks to the best score in both wet and dry conditions; the test highlighted its balanced stability, steering precision and benchmark braking performance. Cinturato Winter 3 also took first place in the new Auto Bild comparison, conducted in size 205/55 R16 on a Volkswagen Golf with 14 tyres competing. It received an “exemplary” rating and the best overall score, standing out as the benchmark in the wet thanks to top aquaplaning results, short wet braking distances and precise handling. It also finished on the podium in tests by Auto Express, Auto Bild Allrad, which praised its very low noise levels as well as its wet-road behaviour and braking, and Tyre Reviews, where it achieved the best result in dry conditions, with consistent braking grip, effective handling and good resistance to aquaplaning in the wet. Cinturato Winter 3 therefore achieved six podium finishes in seven tests, including three victories. 

SCORPION WINTER 3 WINS ON ITS DEBUT IN ALVOLANTE COMPARATIVE TEST 

The new Scorpion Winter 3 debuted with a victory. In the alVolante comparison, conducted in size 235/60 R18 on an Alfa Romeo Stelvio, it ranked first among six winter tyres. The difference was made by its wet performance and shortest braking distance, as well as the fastest lap time and progressive reactions to changes of direction. On snow it was judged consistent and predictable, while on dry roads it proved balanced. According to the publication, the tyre “has no real weaknesses and shines in the wet”. 

P ZERO WINTER 2 ON THE PODIUM IN AUTO BILD COMPARATIVE TEST 

In the annual super comparative test by German magazine Auto Bild, P Zero Winter 2 finished on the podium with an “exemplary” rating, thanks to precise driving behaviour in both wet and dry conditions and outstanding braking performance on wet and dry roads. The result confirms the effectiveness of a product designed to deliver safety and driving pleasure for high-performance cars in challenging winter conditions.

ALSO FOR EVs: PIRELLI ELECT TECHNOLOGY 

Cinturato Winter 3, Scorpion Winter 3 and P Zero Winter 2 are also available with Pirelli Elect technology on dedicated fitments for Europe’s growing EV fleet. Elect is the Pirelli technology for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles and addresses their specific requirements: greater range^[3] thanks to low rolling resistance, enhanced acoustic comfort and longer tyre life. Safety remains central, especially in winter: electric motors deliver high and immediate torque, putting traction to the test in cold, wet and snowy conditions. Elect therefore also focuses on grip, with compounds and tread patterns designed to transfer power to the road while reducing potential loss of traction, together with a reinforced structure to support the weight of the batteries. This enables drivers of electric vehicles to tackle the cold season with a balanced winter tyre across different conditions without compromising efficiency. 

WINTER OR ALL SEASON? 

All-season tyres are the ideal choice for drivers who mainly use their car in urban areas, cover an average of up to 20,000 km per year and do not frequently encounter heavy snowfall. Drivers who exceed this mileage, regularly travel in mountain areas or drive high-performance cars will generally find winter tyres the more suitable solution. Pirelli offers an advanced all-season range with the 3PMSF marking, which certifies suitability for winter conditions, starting with Cinturato All Season SF3, the  all-season tyre with the most awards in independent tests^[4]. 

The latest European tests have confirmed its benchmark position: four victories, in comparisons by Auto Zeitung, Reifentester, Auto Express and Que Choisir, plus six additional podium finishes. Auto Express judged it the best both in objective assessments and driving enjoyment, while Auto Zeitung identified it as the segment benchmark, rewarding its performance in wet and dry conditions. 

It also reached the podium in tests by ADAC, Auto Bild (in sizes 215/55 R18 and 225/45 R17), auto motor und sport, AvD and Tyre Reviews, standing out for wet safety, snow performance, aquaplaning resistance, dry braking, comfort and efficiency. The consistency of these results, achieved with different sizes and test methodologies, confirms the product’s overall balance in typical year-round driving conditions. 

The All Season family is completed by the new Scorpion All Season SF3, developed for SUVs and based on the Cinturato All Season SF3 experience, bringing the same design approach to the segment. 
 

^[1] Test notes: All results cited refer to independent comparative tests conducted in 2026 by European motoring organisations, consumer organisations and specialist media. The performance figures reported relate to the specific measurements tested and the conditions stipulated in the respective test protocols. Results, rankings and assessments may vary depending on tyre size, the vehicle used and the methodology adopted by each testing organisation.

^[2] Based on the number of victories achived in available independent comparative tests from  2020 to 2026 for  All Season tyres in the European market

^[3] The technology can increase the driving range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by up to 10%. 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 driving range of 550 km.

Source: Pirelli internal R&D tests conducted between March and June 2022.

^[4]  Based on the number of victories achived in available independent comparative tests from  2020 to 2026 for  All Season tyres in the European market

Published on: 2 November 2026, 11:00 CET

For the Italian, it is a historic achievement because, at just 20 years of age, he becomes the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 history. Until now, the record belonged to four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel, who claimed his first title at the age of 23.

The podium, set against the backdrop of the circuit named after the Rodríguez brothers, featured only World Champions: Verstappen boasts four titles, Hamilton has won seven, and Antonelli has now added his first to his tally.

Verstappen secured victory thanks to a two-stop strategy. The Dutchman started on Medium tyres before switching to Softs on lap 27. After completing 18 laps on the C5 compound, the race was halted by a red flag. Verstappen took advantage of the interruption to fit another set of Soft tyres and subsequently held off Hamilton’s charge to the chequered flag.

The Ferrari driver had started on Softs before switching to Mediums. During the Safety Car period that preceded the red flag, he fitted another set of Softs. At the restart, Hamilton opted once again for Softs, using a previously run set. The Ferrari man set the fastest lap of the race on both the red-marked and yellow-marked compounds.

Antonelli, meanwhile, started on Softs and waited until lap 43 before switching to Mediums. The Italian also took advantage of the red flag to fit another used set of Softs. It was a strategy that enabled him to secure third place and, more importantly, the World Championship.

Kimi Antonelli is the third Italian driver in Formula 1 history to win the World Championship. His two predecessors also achieved the feat using exclusively Pirelli tyres. Giuseppe “Nino” Farina claimed the title in the inaugural World Championship season of 1950, contesting six races on Pirelli tyres, while Alberto Ascari secured his second consecutive crown in 1953, winning all eight Grands Prix he entered that year on Pirelli rubber.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“Congratulations to Kimi Antonelli on winning the World Championship. It is a thoroughly deserved success, built on the consistency he has demonstrated throughout the season and sealed today with another outstanding performance, culminating in a podium finish in a race packed with drama alongside two World Champions.

Without the neutralisations, a one-stop strategy would have been the most competitive option for this Grand Prix. Both the Soft and Medium compounds proved capable of covering around half the race distance, making it possible to complete the event with a single tyre change. The C5 once again confirmed itself as the benchmark compound in terms of grip and driver confidence, although the performance gap to the C4 was very small, with both compounds showing similar levels of degradation. It was therefore no surprise that every driver chose the Soft for the final stint after the Safety Car, despite also having the Hard compound available.

From a technical perspective, tyre behaviour was very positive. We recorded no significant graining, and degradation remained within expected levels, proving lower than what had been observed on Friday.

A lock-up by Leclerc at the restart following the red flag also provided further evidence of the robustness of Formula 1 tyres. The tyre sliding across the asphalt caused particularly severe localised wear on the front-left tyre, bringing it very close to the internal structural layers.

This is certainly not a routine occurrence, but it is one that is consistently taken into account throughout Pirelli’s development and validation processes, including through rigorous indoor testing programmes. The ultimate objective is to ensure that the tyre maintains an appropriate level of integrity even under extreme conditions, allowing drivers to continue racing in complete safety.

The performance of the Soft compound was particularly interesting, as demonstrated by Antonelli’s lengthy stint. He completed 43 laps while maintaining very limited degradation and a competitive pace right through to the closing stages of the race.

The C3, meanwhile, was not considered by the teams because, under race conditions, it did not offer any performance advantage over the two softer compounds. Overall, the data collected confirmed a very clear picture, fully consistent with the simulations carried out before the event, both in terms of degradation and the competitiveness of the various strategic options.”

Great races in demanding conditions on the tyres

“Sepang is a particularly challenging circuit for tyres. The highly abrasive asphalt, combined with high track temperatures, puts the tyres under considerable stress. Here, striking the best balance between performance and wear resistance becomes even more important.
The tyres selected by Pirelli for this Grand Prix were especially fit for the purpose. In Moto2™, every rider chose the supersoft F0192 development rear tyre over the standard soft SC0, because of the higher level of grip it provided. This was particularly valuable at a circuit like Sepang, where high asphalt temperatures tend to reduce grip. At the same time, despite being a supersoft compound, the F0192 demonstrated good wear resistance, completing all 17 laps on a very abrasive surface.
In Moto3™, the medium SC2 was the most popular front option, while both the soft SC1 and medium SC2 delivered strong rear performances, as demonstrated by the different choices made by the podium finishers.
As expected, tyre wear was higher than usual at this circuit, but this compromised neither performance nor the racing quality, with new race lap records being set in both classes.”

The top ten drivers were covered by just seven tenths of a second, underlining how closely fought and competitive the session was. Hamilton and Russell used five new sets of Soft tyres across the three qualifying segments, while Leclerc used four.

Reigning World Champion Lando Norris was the fastest driver in the third free practice session. The McLaren driver posted a 1:17.600, just one thousandth of a second quicker than Kimi Antonelli (1:17.601). Charles Leclerc was third on 1:17.717.

In FP3, drivers used only the Medium and Soft compounds, focusing primarily on qualifying simulations. The top three all set their fastest times on the C5, which they fitted for their final runs after starting the session on the C4. The highest track temperature was recorded during the closing stages of the session, reaching 48 °C.

The Pirelli Pole Position Award was presented by Rafa Márquez. Since this year, the former footballer has been head coach of the Mexico national team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Mexican footballers of all time. During his playing career, he spent seven seasons as a defender with FC Barcelona, winning two UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga championships. He also represented Mexico in five FIFA World Cups before moving into coaching.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“We approach the Mexico City Grand Prix with a very open strategic picture. On paper, both a one-stop and a two-stop race are competitive options, with several Medium and Soft tyre combinations capable of delivering a very similar overall race time. The final choice will depend on a range of factors, including each car's characteristics, aerodynamic set-up levels and, above all, the traffic drivers may encounter after a pit stop.

Many teams may choose to start on the Medium and switch to the Soft between laps 35 and 41, taking it through to the chequered flag. In this scenario, tyre management will remain an important factor despite the relatively low degradation levels. The alternative two-stop strategy would involve starting on the Soft, followed by a stint on the Medium and a final stint once again on the Soft. According to our simulations, there is no significant difference in total race time between these two options. However, teams opting for the two-stop strategy will need to carefully assess the impact of traffic, as the number of cars they may need to overtake after each stop could prove decisive.

The Hard does not appear to be a particularly competitive choice compared with the main alternatives. An early race neutralisation could alter some strategic scenarios, giving teams the option of completing the race on the C3 or moving towards a two-stop strategy. From a tyre behaviour perspective, compared with yesterday we have not observed any significant abrasion or graining, and several long runs showed tyres remaining in very good condition.

Further evidence of the circuit’s continuous evolution came during qualifying, the first session in which drivers completed an additional preparation lap before their flying lap, and the final one in which they headed straight into the decisive lap.”

Tyre management will be crucial in Sepang races

“Recent flatwork on the Sepang circuit’s most problematic sections successfully removed bumps and dips. However, the removal of material left the surface particularly rough and abrasive, resulting in higher tyre wear than in the majority of circuits. High air temperatures - and consequently high track temperatures - further reduce grip levels.
Therefore, teams will need to strike the best balance between grip, performance and tyre wear management over the race distance to succeed. We have witnessed a clear preference in Moto2™, with the soft SC1 front and supersoft F0192 rear tyres being the most popular option so far. Some riders, particularly in FP2, compared the F0192 with the standard soft SC0. However, the latter offers less grip, leading to more sliding and limiting its potential.
In Moto3™, everyone went with the soft SC1 rear option in qualifying, paired with either the soft SC1 or medium SC2 front. However, rear tyre choices may differ during the race, with several riders potentially going for the medium SC2 to keep wear under control.
In the end, tyre management will be one of the crucial aspects for a strong race, especially in the closing stages”.

All three set their best laps on the Soft compound, following a similar programme. They ran the Medium tyre in the first part of the session before switching to the red-marked compound. Russell and Norris carried out their long-run simulations on the C5, while Leclerc opted for the C4, fitting a used set after completing his qualifying simulations on the Soft.

Medium and Soft were the most widely used compounds across the field in FP2, with only four drivers also running the Hard. Leclerc was not only the quickest on the C5 but also set the fastest time on the yellow-marked tyre.

Norris completed the highest number of laps on the C5, logging 25. Kimi Antonelli recorded the most laps on the C4 with 24, while Oscar Piastri completed 11 laps on the C3.

In the opening practice session, teams gave rookie drivers the opportunity to run in place of one of their regular race drivers. Among the reserve drivers, Frederik Vesti was the quickest, setting the third-fastest time overall for Mercedes. The top two positions on the timesheets were occupied by race drivers, with Leclerc posting a 1m18.128s lap and Antonelli a 1m18.787s. Vesti, also on Soft tyres, clocked a 1m18.861s.

During the first hour of running, the Hard compound was the preferred choice for the opening stint, before almost all drivers switched to the Medium and Soft compounds. FP1 took place in slightly warmer conditions than FP2. During the second session, ambient temperature was around 26°C, while track temperature fell to 34°C.

SIMONE BERRA – PIRELLI CHIEF ENGINEER

“Track conditions proved better than expected. Although grip levels were fairly low during the opening stages of FP1, the circuit evolved significantly from the outset, helped by the running of the support categories. As a result, the track offered better conditions than last year, as reflected by the particularly competitive lap times. In addition, the effects of aerodynamic load loss caused by the altitude appear to be less pronounced with the current generation of cars, which may help explain why lap times are so close to last season’s reference.

During the first hour of running, most teams immediately chose the hardest compound both to familiarise themselves with the circuit and to help clean the track. Given that two sets of C3s could be considered surplus to requirements for the remainder of the weekend, this was also the natural choice for the cars entrusted to the young drivers. Both the Medium and Soft compounds performed very well, with a performance gap of around eight tenths of a second. On a circuit that naturally offers limited grip, the C5 was particularly effective in extracting its full potential.

Data gathered from the long runs indicate a significant level of degradation for both of the softer compounds. This opens up several possible strategic scenarios for the race, ranging from a one-stop strategy, with more careful tyre management, to a two-stop approach. On the front-left tyre, we observed localised graining, which already showed signs of improvement between the two sessions. If track evolution continues at the same rate seen today, we expect this phenomenon to reduce further over the course of the weekend.”

For the 2026 edition of the Grand Prix, Pirelli has selected the softest trio in its range: C3 as Hard, C4 as Medium and C5 as Soft. This marks a different choice from last year, when a compound step was attempted with the C2 as Hard, a solution that ultimately proved less appealing from a performance perspective than the softer alternatives.

The main novelty for the weekend is the resurfacing of a large portion of the circuit. The work covered the section from Turn 16 to Turn 1 and the stretch from Turn 7 to Turn 16, leaving only the first sector largely unchanged. New asphalt is normally associated with higher grip levels and lower roughness compared to an older surface. However, it will be important to assess its actual characteristics during the opening stages of the weekend.

The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez has traditionally been one of the least demanding circuits on tyres. Its many low-speed corners and limited lateral loads tend to keep wear under control. At the same time, the thin air reduces the aerodynamic load generated by the cars, increasing tyre slip and making graining a factor to watch closely. With a new and smoother asphalt surface, this characteristic could play an even more significant role in shaping strategy.

In Mexico, the track is often quite dirty during the first sessions, with grip improving significantly lap after lap. This year, that evolution could be even more pronounced given the extensive resurfacing work.

From a strategic point of view, the circuit’s low severity and the behaviour of the three compounds on tracks with similar characteristics could favour a one-stop race. Tyre management to extend stints will nevertheless remain an important factor, particularly considering that the rear axle is the most heavily stressed.

The difference between the various strategic options may depend more on the confidence a driver can extract from a particular compound than on any genuine tyre life limitation. As seen at several events this season, some teams may be more inclined towards the softer compounds in order to benefit from the additional grip available, while others may favour the consistency and stability offered by the Hard.

In any case, the Soft could once again play a central role. The C5 has demonstrated strong characteristics on low-severity circuits and could prove an attractive option not only in qualifying but also in the race, broadening the range of strategic possibilities compared to previous seasons.

Another aspect to monitor will be braking performance. The altitude reduces aerodynamic efficiency and can make the management of the heaviest braking zones more challenging. The long main straight leading into Turn 1 could increase the risk of lock-ups, especially during the early stages of the weekend when grip levels are still limited.

IN 2025

Last year’s grid was split between one-stop and two-stop strategies. Most drivers chose to start on the Soft tyre, while only six cars opted for the Medium and two for the Hard. The softest compound was also used by those running a two-stop race, fitting it for the final stint thanks to extremely low degradation and the absence of graining.

STATISTICS

This will be the sixth Grand Prix held under the Mexico City Grand Prix name. The Mexican race had previously been part of the World Championship for twenty editions as the Mexican Grand Prix, always at the Hermanos Rodríguez circuit, until 2019. After a one-year absence from the calendar, it returned in 2021 under its current title. At the Mexico City venue, the most successful driver is Max Verstappen with five victories, the same number of wins achieved by Red Bull.

PODIUM CAP SPECIAL EDITION

The Pirelli Podium Cap for the Mexico City Grand Prix celebrates Día de los Muertos, which falls on race Sunday. The special-edition cap, to be worn by the drivers on the podium, features a black base decorated with traditional Mexican artistic motifs. The Podium Cap was designed by Denis Dekovic and produced by Pirelli Design. This special edition is already available to purchase via Pirelli’s e-commerce platform: https://store.pirelli.com.

Soft solutions retained for an updated Sepang

"Sepang comes into this year’s event with some changes to the track surface. Recent levelling work has made the asphalt more even in the most critical areas, removing bumps and dips caused over time by the heavy rainfall and water infiltration typical of the monsoon climate. Although the circuit is now more even, there are still differences between the section fully resurfaced in 2023, between Turns 7 and 12, and the rest of the track, which retains its 2016 asphalt base. In addition, prolonged exposure to high temperatures and the elements has gradually increased the surface roughness, making it particularly abrasive.
With these characteristics in mind, we have decided to retain an allocation focused on softer rear solutions, an approach that proved successful at last year’s event. However, both the development supersoft F0192 and the soft SC0 available this year have different characteristics from the specifications used in 2025, making it particularly interesting to assess their behaviour, performance and consistency over race distance. It will also be important to see whether the changes to the track affect the performance balance between the two rear options, either confirming the supersoft as the benchmark for the race or allowing the soft SC0 to be more competitive over the distance".

The Texas race developed into a fascinating strategic battle. Antonelli opted for a one-stop strategy, while Leclerc and Verstappen both committed to two pit stops. The Italian started on the Medium compound before switching to the Hard tyre during his sole stop of the afternoon.

Leclerc began the race on Soft tyres, then moved onto the Medium before finishing on the Hard compound. Verstappen also started on the Soft tyre, fitted a fresh set of the same compound for his second stint, and then switched to the Medium at his final pit stop.

Across the field there was an almost perfect balance between one-stop and two-stop strategies, making for a particularly compelling tactical contest and creating numerous overtaking opportunities. Temperatures were slightly lower than during Friday and Saturday afternoon's sessions in Austin, with track temperatures dropping to as low as 32°C in the closing stages of the race.

Antonelli further strengthened his lead at the top of the championship standings and will have the opportunity to secure his maiden world title as early as the Mexican Grand Prix. The championship leader now has 365 points and enjoys a commanding 123-point advantage over second-placed George Russell on 242. Lewis Hamilton sits third in the standings with 241 points.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“The United States Grand Prix proved a particularly fascinating race from a strategic perspective, with all three compounds used by the teams over the course of the event. The solutions we brought to Austin performed in line with the expectations that emerged over the previous days, with the Hard showing slightly better performance than anticipated. The degradation levels observed during the opening stint confirmed the projections made after the free practice sessions, making the one-stop strategy the most effective option, as demonstrated in the race, albeit by a very narrow margin.

The two-stop strategies adopted by some teams were influenced primarily by Verstappen’s early pit stop, as he chased championship leader Antonelli, triggering a chain reaction in race management across the field. Drivers who were able to take advantage of clear air confirmed the competitiveness of the one-stop approach, maintaining a consistent pace all the way to the chequered flag. Tyre wear was relatively high and broadly uniform across the teams, without translating into any significant increase in performance degradation. From the perspective of tyre appearance, the overall picture was also remarkably consistent, with some more noticeable differences observed mainly on the Medium. The Hard rewarded the teams that incorporated it into their strategies, delivering consistent performance and a level of competitiveness that, for example, enabled Leclerc to pass Verstappen.”

Underpinning these results is the competitiveness of the entire range, from the various P Zero asphalt specifications to the new Scorpion AT gravel tyres, which made their European championship debut this season. These tyres were developed to meet very different demands: withstanding the high temperatures and abrasive roads of Rome, finding grip on the slippery asphalt of Poland and the Czech Republic, and delivering traction and braking performance on Scandinavia’s fast gravel stages.

TWO FULL-SEASON DRIVERS, MORE CONTENDERS ON INDIVIDUAL EVENTS

Suninen and Mabellini were the only frontrunners supplied by Pirelli throughout the European championship season. The Finn built his title-winning campaign on victory in Poland and second-place finishes in Rome, at the Barum Rally and at Rali Ceredigion.

Their efforts were complemented by the results of crews contesting selected rounds: from Mikko Heikkilä’s victory in Scandinavia to Roberto Daprà’s win in Rome and Giandomenico Basso’s podium finish at the season opener in Spain. Achieved by different drivers on different surfaces, these results all contributed to securing the Tyre Manufacturers’ title.

Pirelli-equipped crews won 45 of the season’s 101 special stages, accounting for 45% of the total. On asphalt, they claimed 32 wins from 68 stages, or 47%, while on gravel they won 13 of 33 stages, equivalent to 39%.

TERENZIO TESTONI, RALLY ACTIVITY MANAGER

“This season rewards the work of our drivers and the entire team, as well as a clear technical commitment: to keep developing the range even when our products are already competitive. With the Scorpion AT, we introduced a new tread pattern and improved compounds; with the P Zero, we focused on compound development. The results came on both surfaces and in very different conditions. Suninen converted his speed into a title through a remarkably solid and consistent season, while Mabellini and the crews contesting individual rounds made a vital contribution to our success in the manufacturers’ standings.”

SCORPION AT: A WINNING DEBUT

The main technical innovation for 2026 was the Scorpion AT gravel range, featuring a new tread pattern — the only asymmetric, non-directional design in the championship — developed to improve traction and braking performance, together with upgraded compounds. Heikkilä’s victory at Rally Scandinavia, on the tyre’s European championship debut, immediately confirmed its competitiveness: the Finn won using both the soft and supersoft compounds in the varying conditions encountered over the weekend.

On asphalt, P Zero development focused on optimising the compounds to address the different temperatures, levels of abrasiveness and grip encountered throughout the season.

Max Verstappen finished second with a 1’34’’214, while team-mate Isack Hadjar qualified third in 1’34’’250. Throughout the session, the Soft compound was the tyre of choice.

However, Oscar Piastri, George Russell and Antonelli stood out in Q1 by completing some runs on the Medium before switching, like everyone else, to the C4. The Italian used four new sets of Soft tyres, while Verstappen and Hadjar each used three.

In the third free practice session, Lewis Hamilton set the benchmark with a 1’34’’893. Verstappen was second on 1’35’’061, with Charles Leclerc third on 1’35’’127. The Monegasque driver set his best lap on the Medium, unlike Hamilton and Verstappen, who both recorded their quickest times on the Soft.

Over the course of the entire FP3 session, Hamilton ran exclusively on the C4, using two new sets. Verstappen began the session on a new set of Medium tyres before switching to a new set of Softs. Leclerc opened the session on a new set of Mediums, completing three stints on the same set before fitting a new set of Softs.

As was also the case yesterday, temperatures in Austin remained high, with track temperatures reaching 40°C. Forecasts suggest that peak temperatures during Sunday’s race could be slightly lower.

The Pirelli Pole Position Award was presented by Andrea Dovizioso. The Italian rider was European 125cc champion in 2001 and world champion in 2004. In MotoGP he claimed 15 victories and 62 podium finishes, fought for the world title in three consecutive seasons and established himself as one of the most successful riders of his generation.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“The Free Practice session today provided indications consistent with those that emerged yesterday. The C4 confirmed a performance advantage over the C3 in terms of both grip and lap time, a factor that ensures clear differentiation between the available options. In race pace running, however, the two softer compounds proved to be very closely matched, increasing the number of strategic scenarios available to the teams.

The simulations indicate that a one-stop strategy remains the most effective solution in terms of overall race time. The Soft-Medium combination could be chosen by more than one team in order to maximise the grip advantage offered by the red-banded tyre.

The Hard nevertheless remains a valid option for the second stint, regardless of whether the race is started on the Soft or the Medium. An early neutralisation could in fact encourage teams to complete the remainder of the Grand Prix on the C2.

Should degradation prove higher than expected, a two-stop strategy based on a Soft-Medium-Soft sequence could also become an attractive option. The time difference compared with the one-stop strategy remains relatively small, but track position and the potential impact of traffic must also be taken into account. Ultimately, it will be the evolution of track conditions and tomorrow’s temperatures that determine the choices made by the teams. ”

Challenging qualifying on slick tyres in cold, damp conditions

“Friday may prove to be the only day of the weekend with a completely dry track and mild temperatures. Conditions changed significantly overnight, with intermittent rain continuing into Saturday morning. This limited track evolution and reduced the relevance of Friday’s dry-weather data. With rain also highly likely tomorrow, the wet-weather tyres used in this morning’s FP2 could once again play an important role.
Today posed a particular challenge for teams and riders, who had to continually adapt their bike set-ups to the changing conditions. FP2 took place in the wet, while the track varied considerably during qualifying, with some sections remaining damp, others drying out, and light rain falling during Moto3™ Q2. Temperatures were also significantly lower than on Friday, with track temperatures falling from almost 50 °C on Friday afternoon to just over 25 °C during qualifying.
Despite these challenging conditions, the slick tyres delivered strong performance. In Moto2™, all riders opted for the soft SC1 front and the medium D0922 rear, while in Moto3™, everyone used the medium SC2 rear, with both available front compounds proving effective. These could remain the preferred choices for tomorrow’s races if conditions are dry. Should the rain return, riders will be able to rely on the DIABLO Rain tyres already used in this morning’s FP2”.

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.”

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”.

· 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”.

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”.

Hamilton began the session on the Medium compound before switching to the Soft. The same approach was adopted by Charles Leclerc, Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. The rest of the field used only the C4. The polesitter used four new sets of Soft tyres and posted the fastest lap of the day on his final flying run, improving his personal benchmark in the final sector.

The highest temperatures of the day were recorded during the third free practice session, with track temperatures reaching 54°C before dropping as cloud cover moved in. All three compounds were used in FP3, although the majority of drivers focused their work on the C4.

Charles Leclerc was the only driver to run the Hard compound before switching to a new set of Softs. Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar used the Medium, with the reigning World Champion setting his best time on the C3.

The top three drivers all recorded their fastest laps on the red-marked tyre. Kimi Antonelli was quickest with a time of 1:36.302, Verstappen finished second in 1:36.580, while his team-mate Hadjar ended the session third in 1:36.860.

The Pirelli Pole Position Award was presented by Alvin Chong, a popular Malaysian actor and singer. He is well known in both the Malaysian and Chinese entertainment industries.

DARIO MARRAFUSCHI – PIRELLI MOTORSPORT DIRECTOR

“Track conditions improved progressively throughout the day, allowing the Soft compound to deliver a very competitive level of performance in qualifying. Despite this, lap times remained significantly slower than those predicted by the simulations, indicating that the track evolution was not sufficient to close the gap.

In the attempt to extract the maximum potential from the C4 immediately, the degradation generated on the compound meant that no genuinely competitive laps could be completed after the first flying lap today. At the same time, in yesterday’s running it demonstrated that it can maintain an acceptable level of consistency over race distances when it is brought gradually into its correct operating window over the opening laps. This characteristic could prove particularly important tomorrow, given the number of Soft sets retained by several teams.

Tomorrow’s Grand Prix looks especially interesting from a strategic perspective. Most drivers have two sets of Hard tyres available, which should provide a solid option for the longer stints thanks to their greater thermal resistance and lower degradation compared to the softer compounds. On paper, the Medium-Hard-Hard and Soft-Hard-Hard combinations appear to be among the most competitive.

There are, however, some particular situations, such as those of Verstappen and Leclerc, who each have only one set of C2 tyres available and may therefore consider different approaches, making greater use of the Soft and Medium compounds or even evaluating three-stop strategies. In this scenario, the range of possibilities becomes much broader, with shorter stints and increased flexibility.

By contrast, we are unlikely to see one-stop strategies, which on paper offer no advantage in terms of total race time at a circuit where overtaking remains possible at several points around the track. Finally, there remains an element of uncertainty related to the weather, with a chance of rain that could influence the teams’ strategic choices.”

New all-time lap records on Motegi’s resurfaced track

“Motegi’s new asphalt has greatly affected the track performance, as evidenced by the circuit records set in both classes. In Moto2™, lap times gradually lowered in every session through to qualifying, when Guevara improved the previous record by more than one second. The new 2026-specification supersoft SCX rear also contributed to this result, once again confirming its high performance potential also at this circuit. The Moto3™ circuit record was also updated, this time with the same tyre solutions used in 2025. The new results was achieved thanks to the new asphalt’s higher grip, and as the teams and riders are getting more and more familiar with our tyres, after three seasons.
The new surface provides a very high level of grip while keeping tyre wear relatively low, which is particularly interesting from a race perspective. In Moto2™, we expect all riders to unanimously opt for the softest combination available, with a SC1 front and SCX rear combo. On the other hand, in Moto3™, the track’s grip reduces the advantage normally provided by the soft SC1 rear option, which is why many riders are leaning towards the medium SC2, whose competitive performance has shown with greater consistency. Honda riders may, however, continue to prefer the SC1. The soft SC1 front tyre will likely be the most popular choice, with a few exceptions”.

Isack Hadjar finished FP2 in second place with a time of 1:37.627, while Lando Norris recorded the third-fastest lap with a 1:37.665. The reigning World Champion ran exclusively on the C4, the Soft compound for this weekend, using two sets during the second hour of running. Hadjar and Leclerc also set their best laps on a set of Soft tyres, although both drivers additionally used a set of Mediums during the session. No driver ran on the Hard compound today.

During the second half of FP2, every team focused exclusively on race pace work. Tyre management is expected to play a crucial role on Sunday and, for that reason, teams sought to gather as much data as possible ahead of the Grand Prix.

In FP1, held in slightly cooler conditions than those seen in the afternoon, almost the entire field split its programme between Soft and Medium tyres. Only Max Verstappen, Isack Hadjar, Arvid Lindblad and Franco Colapinto ran exclusively on the red-marked compound.

Verstappen ended the day at the top of the combined classification thanks to the 1:37.520 he set on the C4 during FP1. In the opening hour of running, the Dutchman completed 16 laps on his second set of Softs and seven on the first.

George Russell set the second-fastest time with a 1:37.903, recording his benchmark lap on Soft tyres after completing an 18-lap stint on a single set of Mediums. Hadjar finished third with a 1:38.303 and, like his team-mate, focused exclusively on evaluating the Soft compound, covering eight laps on the first set and 15 on the second.

SIMONE BERRA – PIRELLI CHIEF ENGINEER

“Track conditions played a decisive role in tyre behaviour throughout this opening day at Sepang. From the outset, grip levels were low due to dust on the surface and a particularly abrasive track that requires a significant amount of rubbering-in before it can deliver its full potential.

This had a clear impact on track evolution and lap times, to the extent that Friday’s fastest lap remained virtually unchanged between FP1 and FP2. The benchmark time was more than four seconds slower than the qualifying simulation reference, a mark that the cars may struggle to approach tomorrow.

The sessions were also characterised by high thermal degradation, generated by tyre sliding and the nature of the track surface, with a significant impact particularly during the long runs.

The absence of the forecast rain during FP2 allowed teams to complete a number of race simulations, enabling us to gather substantial data on the C3 and C4 compounds, which displayed very similar levels of performance in terms of both pace and degradation.

At times, the Soft proved more consistent than the Medium because its higher level of grip helps limit sliding and, consequently, heat generation. The performance delta between the two compounds is around half a second, in line with expectations. The Hard remains an unknown quantity, however, as teams chose not to use it and instead preserve their available sets for the race.

With degradation levels similar to those seen today, performance drop-off is between two and three tenths of a second per lap. As a result, Sunday’s race could be shaped by two or more pit stops, which was precisely the outcome we hoped to encourage through the compound selection for this event. Before defining a more precise scenario, however, it will be necessary to carry out a further analysis of the data collected throughout the day.”