F1 teams to vote against the introduction of blanket-free Pirelli tires for 2024

Formula 1 teams are not willing to adopt blanket-free tires citing safety concerns.

F1 teams to vote against the introduction of blanket-free Pirelli tires for 2024

The Ferrari SF23 with blanket-free tires, image via F1i.com

Formula 1 has floated around the idea of putting an end to tire blankets for some time now. The sport has looked to introduce blanket-free tires developed by Pirelli for 2024. Although this was changed later on while keeping a provision for a vote on tire blankets for the upcoming season. This vote is set to take place in July and it seems that teams are convinced on keeping the blankets on.

The tire manufacturer has been working extensively on its new blanket-free tires. Mercedes and Ferrari tested the new tires in Barcelona following the Spanish GP. George Russell was vocal about his views against the ban on tire blankets citing safety risks. Red Bull, Williams, and Haas are set to conduct blanket-free running in Silverstone after the British GP.

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However, it appears that the teams have made up their mind on tire blankets. The paddock believes the new rubber is simply not at a level where blankets could be banned in F1. As per reports, it is likely that the majority of the grid will vote in favor of retaining tire blankets for next season. With team bosses and drivers being rather reluctant towards this proposed change.

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The vote could lead to the abandonment of blanket-free tires

An F1 car with a Pirelli tire under the blanket, image via Motorsport.com
An F1 car with a Pirelli tire under the blanket, image via Motorsport.com

Pirelli introduced blanket-free all-wet tires at the Monaco GP this season. Although the manufacturer’s proposal for bringing new intermediate tires without blankets for the Singapore GP was rejected by teams. Subsequently, it seems that Formula 1 is not willing to do away with tire warmers yet. As such the sport will continue to use its standard F1 tires. Moreover, the development of tire blankets might come to a halt altogether soon.

If the teams decide to vote against the use of blanket-free tires for 2024, Pirelli would have to stop further development. As the Italian giant will have to win the tender of remaining in F1 beyond 2024 to bring in these tires in the future. Former F1 tire supplier Bridgestone has already submitted its bid to replace Pirelli as F1’s only tire supplier from 2025.

Thus, Formula 1 teams are hesitant to adopt blanket-free tires. Drivers have made it clear that the tires remain too dangerous for use in races and could lead to potential incidents. As such, more development seems necessary to get the tires to a stage where drivers can gain confidence while pushing. For now, it looks like there is a long way to go.

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