Pirelli has indicated that tires will play a central role in the Formula 1 Chinese GP next weekend, which will feature the first Sprint race of the 2026 season. The Shanghai circuit is historically one of the most demanding circuits on the calendar regarding tire wear, due to the long high-speed corners that generate continuous lateral loads on the compounds.
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“The new asphalt significantly increased grip, reducing lap times. However, the smoother surface generated graining in 2025, especially on the front axle, which became a limiting factor, mainly during the Sprint race. The phenomenon decreased on Sunday thanks to track evolution,” Pirelli stated in a press release.
For the weekend, the available compounds will be C2, C3 and C4, corresponding to hard, medium and soft tires. The Italian manufacturer warns that, one year after resurfacing, the track will be slightly more worn and, although still smoother than most circuits, grip levels may drop, as well as the possibility of tire graining. This condition can be evaluated as early as the first and only free practice of the weekend on Friday.
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Despite the cars being significantly slower compared to 2025, as already observed in Melbourne, Pirelli expects that the use of Straight Mode (SM, to assist in overtaking) will compensate for the loss of straight-line speed, keeping lap times close to those of last year.
The Chinese GP promises to be, therefore, a true test for tire durability and management, making race strategy an even more decisive element, especially in the Sprint format.
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