Formula 1 is not just about racing, it's about the same zamIt is also known for the excitement of race weekends. In order to increase this excitement and make qualifying more competitive, the FIA decided to experiment with the “Alternative Tire Allocation” format. According to Pirelli motorsport chief Mario Isola, this format may become permanent. So, what does the new qualifying format change and why is it so important for Formula 1?
What is the Alternative Tire Allocation Format?
The Alternative Tire Allocation format requires different tire compounds to be used in each part of qualifying. This format ensures that tire selection plays a strategic role in qualifying. For example, hard dough should be used in Q1, medium dough should be used in Q2 and soft dough should be used in Q3. In this way, teams have to think carefully about which tires they will keep for the race.
Advantages of the Format
One of the biggest advantages of the Alternative Tire Allocation format is that the same type of tire is not used in each section. This complicates race strategies and allows different teams to try different approaches. This makes the races more interesting.
Mario Isola said in his statement about the format after the Monza race: “I believe that this format makes the qualifying rounds much more interesting. Now pilots have to adapt quickly to different grip levels and you see them pushing harder and harder. I like this idea. This is my personal opinion of course, but I like the idea and believe it is a good way to reduce the tires a bit without affecting the strategy, without affecting the race. Sometimes this even increases the quality of the race.” he said.
Why is it important for Formula 1?
Formula 1 is a sport that constantly has to improve driving skills and strategies. The Alternate Tire Allocation format requires pilots to quickly adapt to different conditions, while zamIt makes it difficult for teams to determine their strategies at the moment. This contributes to making the races more exciting and competitive.
Future Perspective
Mario Isola says the following about the future of the new format: “First, we will evaluate the pros and cons of the new format, the final decision will be taken later. We may need to make some tweaks; for example, instead of using seven sets of soft compound for the race, use one set in the second practice session and reduce to six sets. "Or we can continue to use seven sets and allocate one set of tires that can only be used in the second practice session."
All in all, the new qualifying format seems to bring a breath of fresh air to Formula 1. However, it seems that whether the format will become permanent will be determined depending on the evaluations of the FIA and the teams.
