F1 imposes a limit of 25 laps per set of tires at the Qatar GP to avoid failures Por Thiago Lemos
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Formula 1 has determined that each set of tires can be used for a maximum of 25 laps during the Qatar GP, scheduled for November 30 at the Losail International Circuit. The measure was defined by Pirelli, the official supplier, in agreement with the FIA and teams, based on data collected in the 2024 edition of the race. The objective is to avoid excessive overheating and the risk of structural failure in the compounds.
The restriction does not include formation laps or those returning to the pits after the checkered flag. With 57 laps in the main race, most drivers will be required to make at least two pit stops.
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Technical analysis motivated the decision
Pirelli identified a high level of degradation especially in the left front tire during last year’s Qatar GP. The combination of high track temperatures, high lateral energy and long stints has increased the fatigue of the tires’ internal structure.
Teams tried to reduce the number of stops by managing wear, but this took some compounds close to the safety limit. The supplier considered this data sufficient to establish a ceiling of 25 laps per stint in 2025.
Compounds chosen for Losail
The range selected for the weekend is the hardest available: C1 (hard), C2 (medium) and C3 (soft). This choice aims to provide greater resistance to the abrasive conditions of the Qatari route.
- C1 presents greater durability and less thermal degradation
- C2 works as an intermediate option for medium stints
- C3 offers greater initial grip, but wears out faster
The stage will also feature a sprint race, the last of the 2025 season.
Losail problem history
The Losail Circuit has recorded serious tire incidents in previous years. In 2021, long periods without changes and contact with high curbs caused punctures in the cars of Valtteri Bottas, Lando Norris and other drivers.
In 2023, new Pirelli analysis detected microfractures caused by 50 mm pyramidal zebras. The FIA responded with stricter track limits and even extra free practice for testing.
Strategies affected by restriction
With the limit of 25 laps, one-stop strategies become unfeasible in the main race. Teams need to plan at least two changes, which changes pace management and track position.
The restriction applies to all compounds, including the soft ones used in sprinting. PChampionship-leading drivers, such as Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, can adjust approaches to minimize wasted time in the pits.
The Qatar GP takes place a week after Las Vegas and could define important positions in the table. The race precedes the end of the season, scheduled for Abu Dhabi on December 7th.
Security measures taken
In addition to the lap limit, Pirelli increased the mandatory minimum tire pressure. Monitors installed in the compounds allow real-time monitoring of internal temperature and pressure.
Teams received a detailed report with wear simulations for the 5,380 meter route. The objective is to ensure that no tire exceeds the critical point of structural integrity during the race.
