Pirelli: One-Stop Strategy Remains the Most Effective Option

Pulse Sports Team 02:02 - 25 October 2026

According to Formula 1's official tyre supplier, Pirelli, the most effective strategy for the United States Grand Prix will be a one-stop race utilizing the two softer compounds available in Austin.

However, teams could also opt for more aggressive two-stop strategies, as the projected delta in overall race time between the two approaches is marginal. Key factors influencing team decisions will include track conditions, tyre degradation, and any potential race neutralisations via a Safety Car or Virtual Safety Car.

"Today's free practice session confirmed the trends we observed yesterday. The C4 compound demonstrated an advantage over the C3 in terms of both grip and lap time, providing a clear distinction between the two options. During the long runs, however, the two softer compounds showed very similar race pace, expanding the strategic options available to the teams. "Simulations indicate that a one-stop strategy remains the most efficient approach in terms of total race time. Several teams could opt for a Soft–Medium combination to maximize the extra grip offered by the red-walled tyre. "The Hard compound also remains a viable option for the second stint, regardless of whether the race is started on Softs or Mediums. An early race neutralisation could prompt teams to run the remaining distance on the C2. "If tyre degradation turns out to be higher than anticipated, a two-stop strategy running a Soft–Medium–Soft sequence could also become an appealing alternative. "The difference in total race time compared to a one-stop remains relatively small, but track position and the potential impact of traffic must also be factored in. Ultimately, track evolution and temperatures will be decisive in guiding the teams' strategic choices," stated Pirelli Motorsport chief Dario Marrafuschi.