As the Formula 1 season heats up, Ferrari is making significant progress in tyre development, which could influence upcoming races. After a tough weekend in Canada, the team is back on track with recent testing at their home circuit, Fiorano. This testing is crucial for enhancing their performance and remaining competitive in the championship.
The Significance of Tyre Testing in F1
Tyre testing is a vital part of Formula 1 because tyres greatly affect how fast and durable a car can be on track. Teams constantly test new tyre compounds and strategies to find the best combination for each race. Ferrari, one of the most successful teams historically, has focused heavily on tyre development this season. Their recent tests aim to improve grip, longevity, and overall performance, which can give them an edge over rivals.
Recent Testing Activities at Fiorano
Just days after the Canadian GP, Ferrari conducted a two-day tyre test at Fiorano. The main drivers involved were Charles Leclerc and the reserve driver Zhou Guanyu. Zhou drove Ferrari’s 2025 car, the SF-25, focusing on different tyre compounds provided by Pirelli, Ferrari’s tyre supplier. This test was critical for gathering data on how the tyres perform on various track conditions, especially for the 2026 season. Zhou completed 159 laps, highlighting the importance of the test in understanding tyre behaviour over many laps.
The testing focused on both dry and wet conditions. Zhou recorded his best lap of 59.820 seconds on slick tyres, which is promising for dry performance. He also tested intermediate tyres, stopping the clock at 1 minute 7.4 seconds, giving insight into wet weather conditions. Meanwhile, Leclerc took the wheel on the second day, continuing the tyre evaluation process that Ferrari hopes will translate into better results at future races.
This tyre work is part of Ferrari’s ongoing effort to enhance their car's performance. Tyre development is especially important in F1 because it impacts everything from race strategy to qualifying speed. Ferrari’s focus on this area shows their commitment to improving their competitiveness after recent setbacks. As the season progresses, the data collected during these tests could play a key role in upcoming race successes.
