According to the tyre supplier's website, the three hardest compounds will be selected for this weekend, meaning the C1 tyre makes it 2026 debut having not been used in Australia or China.

Pirelli also note the recent resurfacing of the Japanese track, and the temperature throughout the weekend, as key factors to look out for during Round Three of the F1 season.

Thanks to the forces and loads generated by sudden changes of direction and high-speed sections, Suzuka is indeed one of the most demanding circuits for tyres on the F1 calendar.

Accordingly, Pirelli have confirmed C1 for the hard tyres, C2 for the mediums, and C3 for softs, the three hardest compounds available in 2026.

Last year, the circuit was partially resurfaced ahead of the Grand Prix, from the exit of the first chicane to the end of the first sector. Pirelli have confirmed the remaining two sectors up to Turn 17 have been 'substantially completed.'

Pirelli said: "The asphalt is therefore expected to be smooth and still dirty, offering relatively low grip.

Pirelli believe there is potential for all three compounds to come into play during the race, judging by the C3's performance last time out in Shanghai.

The tyre supplier also drew attention to the temperature at Suzuka, with the race being held one week earlier than last year, when ambient temperatures were settled at around 15°C.

At Suzuka, drivers will be able to deploy the active aero — opening both the front and rear wings — in two clearly defined zones.

One of these is on the start-finish straight, immediately after exiting the final chicane, while the other is the long back straight that begins just after the Spoon curves and leads into the iconic 130R.

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