Pirelli has confirmed its tyre compound line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, completing one of the final steps toward full homologation on December 15. The decision follows analysis from the recent Mexico test and approval by the FIA.
For 2026, F1 will continue with a five-compound slick range, from the hardest C1 to the softest C5. The next-generation regulations will introduce narrower tyres, revised load profiles and active aerodynamics, making the tyre programme one of Pirelli’s most complex development cycles to date.
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C6 removed due to insufficient performance difference
The softest compound currently available in 2025, the C6, will not be carried over to the 2026 line-up. Pirelli says the prototype C6 did not offer a meaningful step in performance relative to the C5.
According to Pirelli, the time delta between prototype C6 and C5 “was smaller than the other compound gaps,” and no clear strategic benefit was identified.
The intent behind the 2026 tyre structure was to create consistent and predictable performance gaps across all compounds. Since C6 failed to provide that separation, it was removed from the range.
The final slick tyre family now consists solely of C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5.
Development challenged by active aero and mule cars
Tyre development for the new regulations was complicated by two major factors:
- 18-inch tyres narrowed compared to current 2025 spec
- Active aerodynamics significantly altering downforce distribution and load cycles
With no real 2026-spec cars available, Pirelli had to rely heavily on simulation data supplied by the teams and a specially modified mule car designed to approximate the behaviour of the upcoming regulations.
Despite the limitations, Pirelli finalised the tyre structure by the regulatory deadline of September 1.
Final validation test in Abu Dhabi
A final on-track test will take place at Yas Marina Circuit on December 9, featuring current drivers in mule cars running C2 to C5 slicks along with wet intermediates. The test will support the final homologation cycle.
A separate young driver test will run on the same day using 2025 machinery and current tyres.
With 2026 marking the beginning of a radically new technical era, tyre behaviour will play a critical role in how teams adapt. Pirelli’s compound choices are now entering their final confirmation phase as F1 prepares for its most significant regulatory shift since 2017.
