F1 teams weighing up Madrid gamble as key decision awaits

Lando Norris will lead the field away for the start of the Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday, held around the all-new Madring circuit.

The reigning champion narrowly bested Kimi Antonelli to the fastest lap in Q3, taking his third pole position in four rounds.

Having won his last two races from pole position, Norris is seeking his third victory of the year and become the first driver to win a race at the Madring Circuit.

However, a crucial decision awaits the teams as they weigh up the possibility of a one-stop versus a two-stop strategy.

Pirelli has indicated that a one-stop strategy is set to be the most likely route to success, with a medium-hard option on the table.

It also indicated that a soft-hard option is available, which would offer drivers more grip at the start to gain track position, but would result in an earlier drop-off in pace.

Pirelli confirm two-stop race an option

However, teams could also elect to run a two-stop strategy,  which would likely see drivers start on the medium compound before two stints on the hard.

With high temperatures forecast for the race, it's possible that teams may be forced into the two-stopper if tyre wear proves too much to bear.

However, it would be a gamble as it would likely put the driver into traffic, and if the junior categories are anything to go by this weekend in Madrid, overtaking will be a significant challenge.

Another factor that the teams will need to consider is the length of the pit lane, which is among the longest on the calendar.

Drivers are expected to lose around 24 seconds through the pit lane, making an extra stop less attractive.

But with the barriers not far away around the track, the chance of a safety car is higher than at traditional circuits and has no doubt played a part in the calculations from the teams.