Pirelli Mandates 25-Lap Tire Stint Limit for Qatar GP

Pirelli, Formula 1's tire supplier, has mandated a maximum stint length of 25 laps per set of tires for the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit, effectively requiring all drivers to make at least two pit stops during the 57-lap race. The decision, announced ahead of the penultimate round of the 2025 season, stems from safety concerns over excessive tire wear observed in the previous year's event.

The rule applies to the main race on Sunday, which follows a Sprint format over the weekend. Pirelli's analysis of tires used in the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix revealed that several, particularly the front-left, had reached their maximum wear levels. High lateral energy from the circuit's demanding layout, including high-speed right-handers in sectors two and three, contributed to structural fatigue that could risk punctures. To prevent drivers from extending stints beyond safe limits in pursuit of one-stop strategies, Pirelli set the cap after consultations with Formula 1, the FIA, and the teams.

Laps will be counted cumulatively across all track sessions, including those under full safety car or virtual safety car conditions. Excluded are laps to the grid, the...