Drivers criticise F1 wet tyres as Pirelli prepares 2027 changes

Pirelli is close to finalising new wet-weather tyres for the 2027 Formula 1 season, which address concerns drivers raised after the wet weekend at Interlagos. Qualifying and the race were both affected by rain, and the wet tyre was the preferred choice in extreme conditions on Saturday.

Williams driver Carlos Sainz said the wet and intermediate tyres were not good enough and called for work with Pirelli on a better tyre. He said the intermediate was weak at the rear in mixed conditions, and that aquaplaning and a lack of rear grip were problems in heavier rain. The main difficulty was getting the intermediates up to operating temperature, particularly on the slow laps to the grid.

Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson said the cars were nearly undriveable on the grid laps as temperatures dropped, while Alex Albon said the tyres never seemed to reach temperature and their tread came off during running. Alpine's Pierre Gasly described the intermediates as very poor in grip.