Pirelli: No Evidence of Unusual Tyre Usage in Recent F1 Technical Intrigue
In the latest twist of the ongoing technical saga in Formula 1, tyre supplier Pirelli has stated that they have seen no evidence of teams improperly using their tyres. The rumours surfaced after the Singapore Grand Prix, where signs of moisture were detected within the wheel rims after the tyres were inspected.
The FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, has been investigating the matter, prompted by concerns raised by Red Bull. Pirelli’s head of F1 and car racing, Mario Isola, has stated that while the method to inject water into the tyres would be relatively straightforward, the physics behind it are complex and could have drawbacks in terms of pressure control.
“I cannot see anything strange from the data we have. I don’t have any evidence,” Isola said. “Obviously, as I said, it’s up to the FIA now to decide what to do and to tell us if we can support, because at the end of the day the only thing we can do is to support them.”
The official scrutineering report from the recent Interlagos sprint race stated that all tyres inspected were compliant with the regulations. Isola explained that Pirelli supplies the tyres with dry air, and any modification to this is forbidden according to an FIA technical directive issued a few years ago.
“We supply the tyres with dry air inside. We have a dryer connected to our system, and they get all the tyres with dry air, as in the regulations,” Isola said. “In the technical directive, it’s written that any modification to this is forbidden, and it’s quite clear. But then you have to have a clear evidence if you have a situation like that.”
Pirelli has indicated its willingness to assist the FIA in any further investigations, should the governing body require their support. The tyre manufacturer remains confident that their products are being used as intended, though the FIA’s probe into the potential “water cooling” trick continues.
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