Following the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix, Pirelli conducted tyre testing at the Hungaroring to support the development of tyre compounds planned for the 2027 Formula 1® season. The sessions involved drivers from Alpine, Audi, and Aston Martin, focusing on evaluating the performance and durability of the C3, C4, and C5 tyre compounds.
The test featured Alpine’s Franco Colapinto, Audi’s Gabriel Bortoleto, and Aston Martin’s Jak Crawford. Colapinto and Bortoleto carried out qualifying simulations alongside longer runs to assess how the different compounds performed under various conditions. Bortoleto completed the highest number of laps on Tuesday, totaling 141, while Colapinto recorded the fastest lap time of 1m 20.371s. Crawford contributed with 136 laps and a best time of 1m 24.598s.
These tyre tests took place during the summer break period immediately after the Hungarian Grand Prix, providing teams and Pirelli with valuable data ahead of the 2027 season. Aston Martin also used the opportunity to run Honda’s new-specification power unit during a filming day on Wednesday, adding another dimension to their programme at the circuit.
The testing continued over multiple days, with Colapinto and Bortoleto maintaining a consistent programme to further evaluate the tyre compounds’ behaviour. The focus remained on understanding performance characteristics and degradation patterns, which are crucial for tyre development in Formula 1®.
While the test results do not directly impact the ongoing 2026 championship, they represent an important step in preparing for the technical demands of future seasons. The involvement of multiple teams and drivers highlights the collaborative approach Pirelli takes in refining its products to meet the evolving needs of the sport.
This testing phase at the Hungaroring offered insights into the performance of intermediate tyre compounds under race-like conditions, contributing to the broader development process for 2027. The data gathered will assist Pirelli and the teams in ensuring that the tyres deliver the right balance of grip, durability, and consistency for the upcoming regulations.
