Pirelli Motorsport Director Mario Isola has confirmed that an ‘Alternative Tyre Allocation’ will be implemented at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
In an effort to enhance sustainability, Pirelli will provide only 11 sets of tyres for the entire three-day event. During the qualifying hour on Saturday, teams will be required to use specific tyre compounds.
The first session (Q1) will be contested on Hard tyres, followed by the Mediums in the second session. The top 10 drivers will then vie for pole position using the softest compound available.
This trial of the Alternative Tyre Allocation system was originally intended for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix but had to be postponed due to flooding in the area. If successful, the system may be adopted for future seasons.
“A new tyre allocation for qualifying [known as ATA, or ‘Alternative Tyre Allocation’] will be tried out for the first time, with the obligation to use just the Hard in Q1, Medium in Q2 and Soft in Q3 if conditions stay dry,” explained Isola.
“Both these changes, at least on paper, should lead to a wider range of options, particularly in terms of strategy.
“The ATA also saves two sets of dry tyres compared to the traditional format [using 11 sets instead of 13)] and it will be run again at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.
“After that, the FIA, F1 and the teams will decide whether or not to adopt it for next season.”
