The new Pirelli full wet weather tyre could be set for its Formula 1 debut at the Monaco Grand Prix, with the conditions adding to the "potential random factor" of the event, according to Mario Isola. Following calls in 2022 for the compound to be improved , the tyre manufacturer has developed a new Cinturato Blue full wet tyre which does not require tyre blankets. The compound was set to be available at a race weekend for the first time at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix but, with the event being cancelled due to flooding in the region, it will now potentially make its debut in Monte Carlo.
The 'unique' characteristics of Monaco
Ahead of F1's return to Monaco, Pirelli Motorsport Director Isola has been reflecting on the possible "surprises" that can occur at the street circuit. "Monaco has written its own chapter in the history of Formula 1," Isola said. "The characteristics of this unique circuit, largely unaltered for more than 60 years, make it a true one-off that has often sprung surprises. "No other track can allow a driver to compensate for any technical shortcomings of their car in the same way, and just one incident can shake things up entirely. "The difficulty of overtaking can sometimes detract from the spectacle in the race, but that only makes Saturday's qualifying all the more exciting, as grid position assumes a particular importance to the final result on Sunday."
Tyre choices available
For the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, the drivers and teams will have the three softest compounds at their disposal. "As is often the case on street circuits, Pirelli has nominated the softest tyres in the range," Isola continued. "One of the peculiarities of Monaco is the fact that the track is opened to normal traffic every evening, which means that it's very hard for rubber to build up on the racing line, making the surface even more slippery. "With Imola having been scrubbed, Monaco could now become the debut for the new Cinturato Blue full wet without tyre blankets, obviously depending on weather conditions: another potential random factor this weekend." Weather forecasts for the event currently vary, with some predicting rain while others suggest a mixture of sunshine and showers. The outlook will become clearer as the weekend draws closer, so stay tuned to RacingNews365.com for a full weather report ahead of F1's return to Monaco.
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