No production or quality defect in Baku race, says Pirelli

Formula One’s sole tyre manufacturer Pirelli released a statement regarding its analysis that centred around the tyre failures of Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll and Red Bull racer Max Verstappen suffered high-speed tyre blowouts having run on Pirelli’s C3 tyre for over 30 laps in Baku. The Dutchman was on course to his third win of the season when the rear left tyre on his car exploded, forcing him to retire after his dominant showing at Baku.

Ahead of this weekend’s French Grand Prix, the Milan-based tyre manufacturer said in a statement: “This analysis also took in the tyres used by other cars in the race, which had the same or a higher number of laps on them compared to the ones that were damaged. The process established that there was no production or quality defect on any of the tyres; nor was there any sign of fatigue or delamination.

“The causes of the two left-rear tyre failures on the Aston Martin and Red Bull cars have been clearly identified. In each case, this was down to a circumferential break on the inner sidewall, which can be related to the running conditions of the tyre, in spite of the prescribed starting parameters (minimum pressure and maximum blanket temperature) having been followed.”

Following the investigation, Pirelli submitted their report to all 10 teams as well as governing body the FIA and issued a new set of protocols which will come into force at this weekend’s race in France.

“The FIA and Pirelli have agreed a new set of the protocols, including an upgraded technical directive already distributed, for monitoring operating conditions during a race weekend and they will consider any other appropriate actions,” added Pirelli.

“We adhered to Pirelli’s tyre parameters at all times and will continue to follow their guidance. We are grateful that following the weekend’s high speed impacts no drivers were injured,” read Red Bull’s statement.