Komatsu Warns Against Pirelli’s Two-Pit Stop Rule at Qatar GP

Short Excerpt: Ayao Komatsu of Haas F1 condemns Pirelli’s tyre rules for the 2025 Qatar GP, arguing forced two pit stops will ruin the race dynamics and eliminate strategic variety.

Background on Pirelli’s Tyre Stint Restriction

Pirelli’s decision was driven by data collected from previous years’ Qatar races, where excessive tyre wear and structural fatigue caused safety concerns, especially considering the Lusail circuit’s aggressive kerbing and high lateral loads. The 25-lap maximum stint rule aims to prevent catastrophic tyre failures and protect driver safety, limiting how many laps a single set of tyres can be used across the entire race weekend, including practice sessions.

Strategic Impact and Komatsu’s Criticism

Komatsu argues that limiting tyre stints to 25 laps artificially narrows the race strategy options, essentially mandating two pit stops rather than allowing teams to adapt based on race conditions. He pointed out that exciting races result when multiple strategies can compete, such as one- or two-stop approaches. By enforcing this rule, Pirelli removes that strategic spectrum, thereby diminishing the entertainment value and unpredictability of the race.

“This 25-lap rule will destroy the Qatar GP. It forces everyone into the same two-stop window—no variety, no undercut games, no risk. It’s the opposite of what F1 should be.”

Safety Versus Sporting Value

While Pirelli and FIA implemented the tyre restrictions primarily for safety reasons after observing tyre degradation and structural concerns in past Qatar GPs, Komatsu believes the solution lacks finesse and disproportionately impacts the sporting spectacle. He questions whether the artificial limits are necessary or whether alternative solutions could balance safety with competitive racing dynamics.

Looking Ahead to the Qatar GP

With this rule solidified, all teams and drivers must adapt their race plans accordingly, preparing for at least two mandatory pit stops regardless of race circumstances. This change has sparked debate within the F1 community about the trade-off between safety controls and maintaining the strategic complexity that defines Formula 1 racing.