What tyres will the teams and drivers have for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix?

“The Zandvoort circuit is particularly demanding on tyres in terms of energy density, owing to its short lap length and numerous corners, some of them taken at high speed. The two banked turns, with gradients of 19 and 18 degrees respectively, generate extremely high vertical and lateral forces on the tyres.

“Teams therefore need to manage car set-up carefully and, more generally, the interaction between car and tyres. The level of aerodynamic downforce required is high, very similar to that needed at Budapest, venue of the final round before the summer break.

“The Dutch round has been brought forward by one week compared to 2025. In theory, thermal degradation should play a significant role in the middle of August, but temperatures at Zandvoort rarely exceed 20C and rain is a frequent feature. In addition, the circuit’s proximity to the sea means strong gusts of wind are common, which could affect the drivers, especially with the new aerodynamic regulations.

“With the Sprint format making its debut at Zandvoort, teams will have only one hour of free practice available to finalise their car set-ups.

“While the hard is likely to be the reference compound for Sunday’s race, the two softer options could both prove effective choices for Saturday’s Sprint. Overtaking difficulty, caused by the presence of only one straight and the narrow track width, will also be an important factor in Grand Prix strategy.”

For more information about Pirelli’s F1 tyres, visit pirelli.com.