Reports from Germany claim Pirelli will develop a fifth ‘extra hard’ tyre compound, amid ongoing concerns that its currently-used compounds are too soft.
Auto Motor und Sport reports that an ‘extra hard’ compound is being developed specifically for the Turkish Grand Prix, in order for the right-hand tyres to cope with the fearsome quadruple-apex Turn 8 (pictured).
The reports also adds that this compound will be tested on the Friday of the Malaysian Grand Prix, with Pirelli having secured a change to the sport’s rules to allow it to run tests on its experimental tyre developments during Grand Prix weekends.
The Italian tyre maker has come under serious criticism from many quarters in the sport, with most claiming that the new-for-2011 rubber degrades far too quickly. Furthermore, FIA race director Charlie Whiting has confirmed that Pirelli is expecting upwards of three pit stops per driver at most races this season.
Pirelli has confirmed it will be sending its ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ compounds to the first few races of the season.
[Original image via Flickr]
Richard Bailey
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