PIrelli testing 2026 F1 tyres with Williams and Alpine

The sessions, under Pirelli instructions and directives, were conducted with Alpine and Williams, aim to develop the new generation of 18-inch tyres set to debut in 2026.

The revised Formula 1 tyres feature a smaller diameter and a narrower profile, reduced by 25 millimetres at the front and 30 millimetres at the rear.

On the opening day, Carlos Sainz completed 116 laps for Williams, setting the fastest time of 1:34.740. Meanwhile, Alpine fielded Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa, who had raced in the FIA World Endurance Championship season opener in Qatar just days earlier. Hirakawa logged 131 laps, with his best time recorded at 1:35.336.

Both teams used modified 2023-spec cars—Williams running the FW45 and Alpine deploying the A523—adapted to accommodate the new tyres. The focus of the programme was evaluating various constructions while using the same compound.

Pirelli testing of the 2026 F1 rubber continues at the Bahrain Grand Prix venue today, when Paul Aron will drive the Alpine and Alexander Albon the Williams.