The recent event at the renovated Losail circuit was overshadowed by tire issues as Pirelli discovered micro-seams on the sidewalls after practice.
Concerns that the problem could lead to tire failure during the race prompted the FIA to take emergency action and ban the tires from being used for more than 18 laps. This made the Grand Prix a three-stop race.
Initial analysis suggested that the problem was caused by the tires being subjected to extreme loads on a particular 50mm high pyramid curb on the truck.
These curbs were placed near the edge of the circuit, despite Pirelli warning in 2021 that this design contributed to the failure of the venue’s inaugural F1 race.
The situation has led to suggestions that the updated Qatar circuit should have hosted some kind of international-level motorsport event before the Grand Prix, and that the problem would have become apparent at that point.
However, this was a regulatory requirement for new F1 venues, but that rule was forgotten many years ago.
Mario Isola, Pirelli’s head of car racing and F1, said the unique demands of F1, with its heavy cars and high downforce, mean other categories don’t need to identify on-track issues in advance. I believe it means.
Mario Isola, Racing Manager, Pirelli Motorsport
Photo credit: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
“Each championship is different,” Isola explained. “For example, in the past we had some problems with GT cars because they were a lot more sloppy than F1.
“Maybe we could organize an international GT event, but then we wouldn’t find the same problem.
“So I don’t know if holding an international event is the way to solve the problem.
“I prefer to rely on simulations and see what the results of the simulation would be. I believe we have tools that are not perfect, but are fairly accurate.
“We are therefore confident that by combining simulation and indoor testing, and working with experts in other fields, we will be able to find a solution.”
Isola believed it would have been difficult to spot potential problems in F1 had he run other categories beforehand, but world champion Max Verstappen should have tried something sooner. I was feeling it.
“Next time we find ourselves in a situation like this, I don’t think F1 should be the first to drive, because it looks a bit ridiculous,” he said in Qatar.
”[In] In FP1 we had cars sliding around with no grip, but when you go to a track with new tarmac, I think it’s important to get at least a little bit of run. It’s very helpful.
“Also to understand the tires, for example to understand our situation now. That’s why we did such forced and restricted laps. So there’s a lot to learn from this whole weekend. I think there are a few things.”