F1 drivers suffering from ‘ballooned’ issue affecting grands prix

It is an issue every F1 driver is having to face in 2026 - but it is not making life easy for any of them.

By Jake Nichol · Racing News 365

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 9:05 AM

Key Things to Know

Alex Albon revealed elevated tyre pressures have ballooned tyres and drastically reduced tyre degradation during races.
Pirelli raised rear tyre pressures to counter safety risks associated with active aerodynamics and higher downforce.
During the Singapore Grand Prix, drivers avoided hard tyres entirely as the soft compound lasted nearly the full distance.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Williams driver Alex Albon explained that Formula 1 drivers are dealing with ballooned rear tyre pressures in 2026, which is directly impacting races. The inflated pressures have caused soft tyres to barely degrade, allowing drivers to run them for nearly entire grands prix, as seen at the Singapore Grand Prix where no driver used the hard compound.

Pirelli raised tyre pressures to counter safety risks linked to exceeded downforce levels and the new active aero straight mode. Despite finishing classified in 18th place after retiring late in Singapore, Albon praised Williams' cooling suit, describing it as the best on the grid.

Read the full article on Racing News 365

F1 drivers suffering from ‘ballooned’ issue affecting grands prix

More Formula 1 News

Never Miss a Sports Update