F1 2026 Season

Formula 1 has reached the 16th round of the 2026 season without a wet-weather race under new regulations.

FIA Wet Safety Changes

The FIA increased tyre blanket temperatures for intermediates, capped electrical power, and banned boost mode in wet conditions.

Tyre Temperature Concerns

Drivers struggled to get intermediates up to temperature, leading Pirelli to prefer Miami for wet races due to high ambient temperatures.

Montreal Wet Race Risk

Pirelli called Montreal a 'perfect storm' for wet races due to low temperatures and difficult tyre heating.

Pierre Gasly on Sepang

Pierre Gasly, Alpine, said Sepang International Circuit would be the easiest location for a wet-weather race in 2026 due to high temperatures and rough asphalt.

“I think out of any track in the season, if one is good for wet, it's probably here.”

Pirelli's Sepang Preference

Pirelli chief engineer Simone Berra said Sepang is the best circuit for testing wet-weather tyres due to high temperatures and rough asphalt.

“Honestly, as an engineer, I would like to have some more feedback and data to work with.”

Tyre Overheating Risk

Pirelli warned of potential tyre overheating in Malaysia due to heavy rain and quick drying, unlike Montreal's cold conditions.

“The point is that we could end up in a situation where you generate overheating, especially if it's raining and then dries up quite quickly.”

Full Wet Tyre Preference

Pirelli expects full wet tyres to be preferred in Malaysia due to monsoons and the need for water dissipation, unlike other circuits.

“When it rains here, it's quite massive and I would see the full wet as the preferred race tyre.”