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F1: 2011 will be learning year for 'show' compromise explains Pirelli

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

Pirelli wants to contribute to the "show" as the new tyre supplier, but acknowledges that 2011 will be a learning year.

The quality of F1's spectacle is often blamed on aerodynamics and braking distances, but on several occasions this year, it is the allocation and performance of Bridgestone's tyre compounds that have spiced up the action.

Incoming sole supplier Pirelli has already vowed to attempt to contribute to the "show" in the design and supply of its products.

"We will seek to do this, alongside the needs of the teams," the marque's racing chief Paul Hembery said in an interview with O Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper.

"To produce durable and high performance tyres is not a problem. The challenge is to find the right compromise between lifespan and durability, with regards to the show," explained Paul Hembery.

Pirelli has already begun its on-track 2011 tyre development programme, with a schedule through to November including Mugello, Paul Ricard, Jerez, Monza and Abu Dhabi.

Paul Hembery added: "It could be that because we cannot test at all the (grand prix) circuits that we need to be more conservative at some places, so that the tyres can survive but the show doesn't benefit as everyone would want. It must be understood that 2011 is our first year."


Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
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  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada