Pirelli Russian Grand Prix Preview

(Pirelli Motorsport Media)

Pirelli have confirmed that the P-Zero yellow walled Soft compound tyre and the white walled P-Zero Medium compound tyre will be used at this weekend's inaugural Russia Grand Prix at the Sochi circuit.

Formula One enters new territory as it will be the very first time that they have run the new generation F1 cars at the brand new circuit as up until now they have relied on simulations to forecast their race strategies for the race on Sunday.

The weather conditions in Sochi this weekend are expected to far better then the extremely wet conditions experienced in Suzuka yesterday but as always Pirelli will provide Intermediate and full wet tyre's.

Speaking about the new circuit, Pirelli Motorsport Director Paul Hembery said:

'Russia is a key territory for Pirelli, along with all the major automotive companies in the world, so we are very much looking forward to Sochi and the first Russian Grand Prix, which is a significant milestone in the sport’s history. 

From a tyre perspective it should be an interesting challenge; we’ve got a wide variety of corners that should test every aspect of performance. As has been the case at every grand prix this year, we’re aiming for between two and three pit stops per race and the nomination we have made reflects this. In terms of overall tyre energy demands, Russia is somewhere in the middle, and measurements also indicate low-abrasion asphalt. 

Regarding the weather, initial forecasts suggest that conditions will be temperate. Going to a new circuit is always exciting and it’s only when we get there that we will have a complete idea of what to expect, so the work done in free practice will be particularly important for everyone.'

Pirelli tyre consultant, former Formula One driver Jean Alesi commented:

'With the simulation technology that exists now, it’s much easier for drivers, teams and of course tyre companies to prepare for a new grand prix than it was in my day. 

But there is still a big difference between virtual and reality: simulation can never replicate everything. So it will be important for the drivers and engineers to inspect the track carefully; to understand the nature of the surface you have to touch it and feel it. 

On the first day in particular the track will be very dirty and difficult to drive, which makes it quite hard to get the right idea about set-up and the characteristics of the tyres. With no previous information, it’s easy to misunderstand things or go in the wrong direction on set-up, which only adds to the challenge of a completely new venue.'

© Ben Johnston 2014