Pirelli predict multiple pit-stops in US Grand Prix

Pirelli is predicting at least two pit-stops per driver in the 2023 F1 United States Grand Prix in Austin.

The 56-lap race follows on from the 19-lap Sprint on Saturday in which 19 of the 20 drivers started on the Medium tyres while only Carlos Sainz took the Soft tyres.

However, Pirelli is not anticipating any repeats for the Grand Prix, with the expectation being that everyone will start on the yellow-marked Medium compound tyres.

Only Alexander Albon does not have a fresh set of Mediums with Lando Norris the exception among those at the front of the grid with only one brand-new set compared to two for the likes of pole-sitter Charles Leclerc and third-place starter Lewis Hamilton.

The first round of pit-stops are expected around Laps 12-19 for a switch to the white-walled Hard tyre.

Some strategic variance is then possible with the second round of stops as fitting the second set of Mediums is a possibility for a 20-lap run to the flag - one more than the Sprint.

However, should there be a Safety Car in the closing stages, Pirelli does feel the option of bolting a set of used Softs on for the charge - although those towards the rear do have a plentiful stock of new Softs.

Alternatively, a one-stopper is possible by starting on Mediums and switching to Hards between Laps 20-26, but this does come with the threat of being caught out and passed by those on two-stoppers late on.