Two-stop strategy expected at Australian Grand Prix
A two-stop strategy is expected to be the fastest option for teams and drivers at the Australian Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen in pit lane at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix. (Mark Thompson/Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool/Supplied)
According to data from tyre manufacturer Pirelli, a combination of the medium C4 compound tyre and two stints on the hard C3 compound tyre is the fastest option at Albert Park.
The choice for teams will be what tyre to start on, with Pirelli suggesting that a start on the medium would naturally be the faster option.
“It will be interesting to see how the teams manage a race that still has some unknowns, especially in terms of strategy,” said Mario Isola, director of motorsport at Pirelli.
“No one has run the hardest compound so far, so that’s another unknown, even if the C3 is the best understood of all five compounds homologated for this year.”
Possible strategies at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix - click to expand. (Pirelli)
Red Bull driver Sergio Perez noted after qualifying that graining at the Albert Park circuit had been more of a factor than in previous years, something repeated by Isola.
“Managing graining will certainly be a key factor given that, at this track, the phenomenon does not improve much as the track gradually rubbers-in, as is the case at other circuits.”
“Finally, one has to take into account the high probability of seeing the safety car on track, or even a red flag to mix things up.”
“It means all the ingredients are there to make for an interesting and spectacular grand prix.”
Max Verstappen will start on pole ahead of Carlos Sainz with the Australian Grand Prix underway from 3pm Sunday (AEDT).
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