The highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled as a night race on November 18-19, is set to introduce a unique challenge for Formula 1 teams and their Pirelli tires.
Unlike the scorching summer conditions typically associated with Las Vegas, the race weekend is expected to feature chilly evenings with single-digit Celsius temperatures.
The sensitivity of Pirelli tires to track conditions makes this weather shift a significant concern for teams. Mercedes, known for their thorough preparation, is already formulating strategies to tackle this unfamiliar obstacle.
Oliver Albert, a simulation & performance engineer at Mercedes, shared insights into their approach. He noted that the Las Vegas race could bring some of the coldest conditions the teams have faced all year, posing distinctive challenges for tire management.
Warming up the tires and understanding their performance over extended runs will be crucial aspects of preparation.
Teams will need to optimize tire positioning to account for the temperature fluctuations and achieve balanced car performance. Additionally, they will closely monitor tire performance to determine which compounds are best suited to the unique conditions.
The Las Vegas Strip Circuit, featuring 14 turns over a 6-kilometre track, promises thrilling racing action. With top speeds reaching around 342 kilometres per hour along the iconic strip, the track’s characteristics are set to rival those of the famous Monza circuit in terms of average speeds.
As Formula 1 enthusiasts eagerly await the debut of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, the spotlight will not only be on the on-track battles but also on how teams adapt to the unexpected cold weather conditions.
Source: AGENCIES
