F1 | GP Canada, the Pirelli preview

After two races in Europe, Formula 1 lands in Canada for one of the most unpredictable Grands Prix of the year. Just like in Monaco, Pirelli brings to Montreal the three softest compounds among those in the range: soft, supersoft and ultrasoft. However, the Montréal track is faster than that of Monte Carlo, with maximum speeds exceeding 300 km/h several times: this imposes an even greater challenge for the cars and tyres. The slippery asphalt, the variable weather and the frequent entry of the safety car - especially thanks to the famous Wall of Champions in front of the pit entrance - have made a large number of strategies possible in the past. This year, however, there are new tires with different characteristics…

The Montré circuit from a tire point of view:

• The Montreal circuit puts a lot of stress on traction and braking, imposing longitudinal rather than lateral accelerations which affect the tires and even more the brakes.
• Warming up the front tires correctly is one of the keys to a fast lap in Canada.  The semi-permanent track is rarely used, so its surface evolves rapidly over the course of the weekend.
• In the past there have been some episodes of graining: with the new generation of tires this phenomenon should occur less.
• The weather can be very hot but also torrential rain.

Mario Isola, Car Racing manager: “Montreal has unique characteristics, although it has some traits in common with Sochi, such as fairly smooth asphalt. Last year the winner opted for just one stop, while the second at the finish line stopped twice using all three available compounds, demonstrating the many possible strategies. On this circuit it is never easy to find the right set up and the correct mechanical and aerodynamic balance: this is one of the key factors for making the tires work correctly. It is also important to always be ready to change strategy, which can be influenced by the weather or the entry of the safety car".