New Qatar F1 risk emerges as fresh concern discovered

Pirelli has revealed it discovered cuts on several of its F1 tyre sets after Friday's on-track action in Qatar.

The findings were made after sprint qualifying, leading to fresh concerns over the tyre structure for the remainder of the race weekend.

Pirelli has already imposed a maximum of 25 laps for each tyre set for the event due to the excessive wear it is anticipating around the Lusail circuit.

It outlined the measure is different to the limitations imposed at the 2023 event, which stemmed from the tyres being cut by kerbs that have since been modified.

The cuts for this year's event, Pirelli noted, are being caused by the gravel that drivers ran across and deposited on the racing line while seeking lap time on Friday.

“We had several cuts on the thread, all the corners affected,” Pirelli chief engineer Simone Berra told media including RacingNews365. 

“This is mainly due to the gravel traps that we have here. 

“The circuit added three or four strips compared to last year. The drivers, when they are pushing to the limit, they are bringing some gravel onto the racing line.  

“We have seen some quite deep gravel cuts. Some of them were very deep.

“We need to take into account any possible implications during the sprint or during the race.”

Berra asserted consistent running across the gravel will likely result in a puncture, sparking concern for the sprint race and grand prix later this weekend - however, he noted drivers will not push the limits as aggressively in the longer race sessions.

“I've seen a couple of cuts that were quite deep, they reached the construction,” Berra said. “They didn't cut any cords, luckily. 

“But obviously, if you expose the construction and you pass continuously on this gravel, then you can risk to have to have a puncture.

“They stay more on track during the sprint and race. So it could be less of a concern.

“But obviously we want to keep our eyes open on this matter.” 

While gravel is a common track limits deterrent across the calendar, it has not been an area of concern when it comes to tyre health.

Berra highlighted the gravel used in Qatar differs from other tracks, noting its sharper points that have not been rounded off.

“It's quite sharp because it has generated these cuts quite easily,” said Berra. “It seems sharper than other circuits.”