Round 14 of the 2026 season comes from Italy’s famous Autodromo Nazionale Monza circuit – and Formula 1 tire suppliers Pirelli have confirmed the vehicles that will take part.
Pirelli will supply drivers and teams with their C3 (hard), C4 (medium) and C5 (hard) tires in the Temple of Speed – the softest choice from the 2026 tire range.
Drivers will receive two sets of hard tires (highlighted in white), three sets of medium tires (highlighted in yellow), and eight sets of soft tires (highlighted in red), as well as access to the green medium tire and full blue tires, if necessary.
An additional set of soft materials is reserved for those who reach Q3 in qualifying, while all drivers must use at least two different vehicles during the race, provided the track is dry.
“The 5.793-kilometre circuit, which includes 11 turns, is one of the fastest circuits on the Formula 1 calendar, thanks in part to its long straights which this year will present an additional energy management challenge with the new power units,” Pirelli’s presentation said. “The team’s simulations actually predict lap times about two seconds faster than last year.
“From a tire perspective, the front axle will have to undergo lower braking loads, as braking zones are more likely to be approached at low speeds. In contrast, the rear axle will face greater demands during traction phases, when the full power of the power unit is deployed.
“Braking stability and traction on corner exit, particularly in the first corners and the Ascari, will be key in gaining an advantage over competitors on a track that is typically run with low downforce aerodynamic settings, with top speed being a priority.
“The circuit has generally provided a good level of grip since the opening sessions. No major modifications have been made since the complete resurfacing carried out in 2024, when a relatively smooth asphalt mixture was laid. This year, the barriers at Turns 1, 4 and 8 have been rebuilt, while at Turn 5 the gravel area has been replaced by a run-off asphalt section.
“Drivers will likely have to deal with rear axle overheating during the race, but the deterioration should not be severe enough to damage tire performance. As a result, a one-stop strategy seems the most likely option for Sunday, despite the fact that overtaking opportunities are not at all rare at Monza.”
