F1 News: Fans Slam 18-Lap Tyre Limit In Qatar

Formula One fans have been criticising the decision to bring in an 18-lap limit for tyres during the Qatar Grand Prix later today.

In a decisive response to critical tyre issues observed by Pirelli during the Qatar Grand Prix practice session, the FIA imposed a strict 18-lap limit per tyre set, necessitating at least three pit stops in the race, aimed at ensuring safety amid concerns of tread separation. This also means that if the teams use used tyres, the previous laps done on the tyres will be included in those 18 laps.

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Despite amending track limits, especially at turns 13 and 14, to dissuade drivers from exploiting 50mm high curbs and thereby minimise tyre wear, issues persisted across the entire track. This issue shone a light on larger, pervasive problems, prompting the Losail racetrack operator to face the daunting task of modifying curbs throughout the track by 2024, while also accommodating the stringent needs of MotoGP and considering the transformation of some asphalt run-off areas into gravel.

F1 News: Qatar Grand Prix Maximum Lap Limit On Tyres Imposed After Issues This Weekend

Fans have been taking to social media, hitting out at the lap limit.

"This is ridiculous, race strategists can take the day off. Why not put governors on so they all have the same max speed."

This is ridiculous, race strategists can take the day off. Why not put governors on so they all have the same max speed. 🤡
— Don (@DonGallant) October 8, 2023

"...then why does the Hard exists.. The C2 cannot complete 20 laps, is that what they are saying?"

...then why does the Hard exists.. The C2 cannot complete 20 laps, is that what they are saying?
— Michael 🏆🇧🇬 (@SavovMihail) October 8, 2023

"Pathetic from Pirelli"

Pathetic from Pirelli
— crazykip (@crazykip14) October 8, 2023

"There’s zero point in running this race at this point. There’s enough limitations here to be called a Naval Treaty"

There’s zero point in running this race at this point. There’s enough limitations here to be called a Naval Treaty
— T.J Garrison (@TEGNC) October 8, 2023

"Clown show... now everyone is essentially on the same strategy. Pirelli are useless"

Clown show... now everyone is essentially on the same strategy. Pirelli are useless
— Warwick Bettles (@wAzNuTz) October 8, 2023