Pirelli selected its medium compound range for Formula 1's first race at Madring after its analysis indicated loads comparable to Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps. The supplier expects the choice to encourage two-stop strategies and reduce the risk of excessive overheating.
The 22-corner circuit combines permanent track and public roads. Its 550-metre banked right-hander has a 24 per cent gradient, while long straights and substantial elevation changes will also influence car setup.