The recent Miami Grand Prix was tough for drivers because of the track conditions and the type of tires they used.
Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, had a hard time finding the right tire temperature for his Mercedes car. He said the tires they use now are different from any he’s used before.
“I think we’re just working in a really, like, minuscule window of tire temps,” he said. “I think it’s this tire. Definitely, in all my career, I don’t remember ever having such a small window of working.”
If the tire temperature is not right, it can make a big difference in the race. Even a small mistake can make a driver lose a lot of positions.
Hamilton said dealing with this situation is frustrating. In the past, drivers had more flexibility with tire temperatures. They could adjust the balance of the car and have good grip throughout the lap. But now, it’s different.
Williams’ driver Alex Albon also noticed this trend. He said that in races like Miami and China, tire temperature matters a lot. Drivers have to manage their tires during qualifying laps to keep them working well.
“The track’s too hot for these tires,” he said. “And with all the pressure limits and everything going up, each year, the tires are struggling.”
Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko said that Mercedes tried using medium tires in Miami, but it didn’t work out. He called it an act of desperation. It shows that even top teams like Mercedes were struggling with tire issues.
