Formula 1 tyre supplier Pirelli reckons a Hypersoft/Supersoft one-stop strategy will be the quickest approach at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Pirelli has brought the new-for-2018 Hypersofts, the Ultrasofts and the Supersofts to Monaco, and all of the top 10 starters will use the pink-banded rubber for the first stint of the race.
Pirelli estimates that pitting on lap 14 of 78 to discard the Hypersofts for Supersofts will be the optimal approach.
The second-quickest strategy is also a one-stop approach, using Ultrasoft rubber for a 25-lap stint before fitting Supersofts for the run to the chequered flag.
Drivers starting outside of the top 10 have free choice on which of the three compounds to use for the first stint of the Grand Prix.
Leading drivers explained on Saturday that a one-stop strategy should be a formality.
“I think we’ll still be able to one stop,” said polesitter Daniel Ricciardo. “I think everyone will make it happen.”
Added Lewis Hamilton: “I think that’s [a one-stop] the target, which I think is not very good here.
“They should make us use Softs, or Hypersofts. One stop is always a boring race. Especially on a track where you can’t even overtake.
“I’m sure we’ll do one stop. The other tyres could probably go a long way.”
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