'At Least Three Tire-Change Pitstops' Might Be Required For Sunday Race In Qatar

"Following the standard analysis of tires used during Free Practice 1 yesterday, in which tires that have been used for approximately 20 laps are examined by Pirelli to check various safety parameters, a separation in the sidewall between the topping compound and the carcass cords on many of tires that were checked was discovered."

"The following actions will be taken on safety grounds in response to this issue:
1. Track limits at Turns 12-13 will be revised.
2. There will be a 10-minute Practice Familiarisation Session, scheduled to start at 16:00 local time, following the revision of the track limits, to allow drivers to adjust to the changes. The Sprint Shootout will therefore start 20 minutes later than scheduled (16:20 local time).
3. There will be extensive tire analysis following the Sprint (19 laps), to decide whether further action needs to be taken ahead of the Grand Prix.

4. In the event the problem is still evident, we will be issuing the following directive for Sunday’s Grand Prix, on safety grounds: The tire life parameter must not exceed 20 for new tires used in the race. This number would rise to 22 for any used tyres fitted in the race, to account for in-out laps in qualifying. All drivers will be obliged to perform at least three tire-change pitstops during the race.
            A) The tire life parameter must not exceed 20 for new tires used in the race. This number would rise to 22 for any used tyres fitted in the race, to account for in-out laps in qualifying.
            B) All drivers will be obliged to perform at least three tyre-change pitstops during the race