Pirelli: Sand will affect the racing

With Bahrain’s Sakhir International Circuit located in a desert, sand can quite often be blown onto the track, causing lack of grip for the cars. This was evident for Pirelli when they tested at the track in 2010, when a sandstorm halted proceedings. No sandstorms are expected this weekend, but sand on the track is expected to be a factor.

Ferrari cleaning their tyres

After having three rain affected race weekends in Australia, Malaysia and China, the trend is naturally expected to stop as the F1 paddock travels to the heat and sandy surroundings of the Sakhir International Circuit in Bahrain. This is one of three tracks which Pirelli will visit this season which they haven’t raced on before, the others being Hockenheim and Austin in America.

However, with extensive knowledge of the track through testing in December 2010 and January 2011, Pirelli are confident on returning to the track. The only aspect of the track which gives cause for concern is the sand that can easily get swept onto the track, which could potentially cause havoc for the tyres.

“We’re expecting a notable degree of degradation that should certainly test the teams in terms of strategy.” Explained Pirelli’s motorsport director, Paul Hembrey. “With the circuit not having been frequently used, we are anticipating quite a high degree of track evolution over the course of the weekend. The risk of sand on the track can be an issue, as it takes time to clear and can cause graining. So tyre management will again be crucial in Bahrain, with rear traction in particular the key to a strong qualifying and race pace.”

The circuit is surrounded by sand everywhere

Spanish driver, Pedro de la Rosa, has had first hand experience when the sand has hit the Sakhir International Circuit. During Pirelli’s first test at the track in December 2010, the Spaniard was behind the wheel when the sandstorm hit. Now driving for HRT, de la Rosa reflects on the occasion.

“We tested there with Pirelli twice, when I was the test driver.” Said Pedro de la Rosa, “It was a fantastic experience and I enjoyed it a lot, as we even got struck by a sandstorm! I’ve experienced rain, hail and even snow but I’ve never encountered a sandstorm in a Formula 1 car, so that was quite incredible.

“You must try to reduce camber as much as possible, in order to put the maximum amount of the surface of the rubber on the asphalt to achieve good braking and traction.” Continued the Spaniard, “You need to reduce downforce because of the large number of straights. It is quite a standard circuit in terms of pit stops. I expect teams to carry out two-stop strategies since the tyres are holding out longer this year and the new Pirelli profile is very beneficial to make the most out of the rubber.”

The heat was noticeable on Thursday afternoon in Bahrain

Coupled with the track layout, heat and sand the fourth round of the Championship is once again shaping up to be all about tyre management. Last weekend in China, Nico Rosberg surprised the field and managed his tyres in superlative fashion. It looks as though the same trick is once again going to be the winner in Bahrain.