F1 set for more one-stop races in 2019

Formula One might be getting new compounds of tyres for 2019 but Pirelli has hinted that one-stop strategies could remain the most popular choice for the teams. Pirelli had aimed for more aggressive strategies with softer compounds in 2018 but they have admitted it was an idea that failed.

The post-season test in Abu Dhabi saw potential tyre compounds being used for the first time. Head of motorsport for Pirelli Mario Isola admitted that the compounds are already decided for 2019 but that they could be leaning towards a more conservative tyre selection with the aim of alternate strategies becoming viable.

“The range and the construction are defined," Isola said.

"We cannot change it now, what we can change is the selection. I discussed that with drivers and also with teams, but there is no clear indication on the direction to take.

“That’s why I want to involve them and the teams in the selection, because it is not clear what we have to do for next year, if we have to go a bit more conservative.”

Isola hinted at the potential changing of philosophy for Formula One's sole tyre supplier. After 2018 saw teams save their tyres as much as possible in order to hit target race times, the Italian manufacturer could produce tyres that will allow drivers to push more in the race.

“We have seen this year we have most of the races with one stop. We went softer and softer and teams were managing the pace more and more.

"So is it good that we continue with this approach? Or we just accept that we have one-stop races but maybe we go one stop harder and teams can push, drivers can push? If you ask me, my personal opinion is it’s better to go in this direction.

"So we accept that we have one-stop races, but at least we give an opportunity to drivers to push.”