Pirelli F1 has determined that tyre failures during the Qatar GP, affecting Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz, were likely not caused by debris from a broken mirror run over by Valtteri Bottas. Initial telemetry indicated pressure losses occurred prior to the arrival at the debris site, prompting further investigation into the actual causes of the punctures.
Pirelli Formula 1 has reassessed the circumstances surrounding the tyre failures experienced by Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz during the Qatar Grand Prix. Contrary to initial assumptions, the analysis now suggests that the punctures encountered by both drivers were not due to debris from a broken mirror that had been run over by Valtteri Bottas. The failures transpired almost simultaneously during the race, leading to preliminary suspicions that the two incidents were linked to this debris.
Recent telemetry data has shown that both drivers were experiencing pressure losses prior to the interaction with the mirror debris. Pirelli’s chief engineer, Simone Berra, elaborated that investigations based in Milan are underway to determine the actual causes of the failures, although initial findings indicate that the punctures likely arose from other debris or incidents on the circuit. Berra noted, “Looking at the telemetry data, obviously we noticed that the pressure loss was before Bottas hit the mirror on the straight.”
After the Qatar tyres were returned to Italy, various evaluations including sidewall inspections and fatigue tests are being conducted to ascertain the condition and performance of the tyres involved. Berra anticipates that conclusive results from these analyses will be unveiled within two weeks.
In related comments, Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin stated, “We have the video data and we can see exactly when that mirror got smashed, when it got broken into a lot of pieces.” He further noted the importance of determining whether any other debris contributed to Hamilton’s and Sainz’s tyre failures.
Given the high stress placed on the front-left tyres at the Losail International Circuit and the significant level of performance extraction during the race, the likelihood of damage remains elevated. As investigations continue, understanding the precise factors that led to these punctures will be crucial for both Pirelli and the teams involved.
The Qatar Grand Prix had significant tyre failures affecting prominent drivers, prompting Pirelli’s investigation. Initially, it was thought that debris from a mirror, damaged during the race, was responsible for these punctures. However, detailed telemetry and examination of the incidents revealed that pressure losses were occurring prior to encountering the debris. This incident raises concerns about the conditions faced by drivers on demanding circuits such as Losail, where tyre integrity is critical to performance. The ongoing investigation by Pirelli is focused on understanding the tyre behaviour and addressing safety considerations going forward.
In summary, the Pirelli F1 team has shifted its stance regarding the tyre failures during the Qatar GP, concluding that the incidents were likely unrelated to mirror debris. Detailed analysis will continue, and the results may provide essential insights into tyre performance under racing conditions. As further data becomes available, it will aid in ensuring the safety and efficacy of the tyres used in future races.
Original Source: www.autosport.com
