Changing track conditions could complicate tyre strategies for teams during tomorrow’s Turkish Grand Prix, say F1 tyre supplier Bridgestone.
The Japanese company, who have brought the soft and hard compounds to Istanbul this weekend, are also keeping a close eye on the durability of the tyres through the challenging Turn 8, which the drivers will tackle 58 times in tomorrow’s race.
Mark Webber used the soft tyre to set his pole position lap earlier today, although some teams further down the field found that the harder compound suited their car better during qualifying.
Hirohide Hamashima, Bridgestone Director of Motorsport Tyre Development, explains what was significant about today’s running in Turkey: “This morning was certainly cooler than yesterday which affected grip levels from the tyres. However, by the afternoon the temperature was much warmer.
“The changing temperatures made finding the best set-up even more difficult for the teams at this venue where this is already a challenge due tothe track surface evolution over the weekend. The difficult to judge grip levels meant that many people found the limit as they danced on the edge of adhesion today.
“Mark Webber proved the best at this when it mattered most, so congratulations to him for his third pole in a row.”
Hamashima also discussed the factors affecting tyre strategies for tomorrow’s race. “Track surface evolution will continue to be a factor tomorrow so judging when which tyre compound will deliver the best performance during the course of the race will be tough.
“The difference between the soft and the hard compound is difficult to tell here as they are very close, and the track conditions and temperatures have been changing. This is a big challenge for teams and drivers.
“Our microscopic analysis of yesterday's tyres did not highlight anything untoward, however teams and Bridgestone will remain vigilant as we face Turn Eight for the 58 laps of tomorrow's race.”
Photo Credit: Vladimir Rys/Bongarts/Getty Images
