---
description: "Tyre compound in F1 explained: the seven Pirelli dry compounds from C0 to C6, wet compounds, how they are nominated per event, and the two-compound race rule."
title: "Tyre compound in F1: Pirelli C0 to C6 range and race rules"
image: https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/11-thursday-lecastellet-330x220.jpg
---

[Skip to main content](#content)

![Change language](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/gb.svg?v=2)

[![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/)

![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-spa-header.jpg)

[![Try F1 on Apple TV for 7 days](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F1-Launch_Refresh2_Static_Affiliate_728x90_US-EN.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-apple-tv/)

[![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/)

[Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/)

- [Home](https://www.f1-fansite.com/)
- [F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/)
- [F1 2026](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2026-formula-1-season/)
- [F1 2027](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2027-formula-1-season/)
- [All Time](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/)
- [F1 Stats](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-statistics/)
- [Photos](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpapers/)
- [F1 Fans](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fans/)
- [F1 Quiz](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/)
- [F1 Tickets](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/)
- [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/)
- Add to home screen

[Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/)

[Next session![Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/mx.svg?v=2) MX Mexico City Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/mexico-city-grand-prix/)

[Next session![Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/mx.svg?v=2) MX Mexico City Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/mexico-city-grand-prix/)

# Compound

[![Compound](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/11-thursday-lecastellet-330x220.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/11-thursday-lecastellet.jpg)

Pirelli tyres in the paddock during the French GP at Circuit Paul Ricard on Thursday June 17, 2021 in Le Castellet, France. (Photo by Zak Mauger / LAT Images)

**A compound in Formula 1 is the specific rubber recipe used in a Pirelli race tyre, and choosing the right one for each event is a mix of chemistry, engineering and race strategy.** Pirelli supplies six dry compounds and two wet compounds across the season, and every Grand Prix uses only a subset. Compound choice can shape a Sunday result as much as the aerodynamic package underneath the driver.

## What is a tyre compound in F1?

A tyre compound is the specific chemical formulation of the rubber layer on a Pirelli tyre. It is a mixture of natural rubber, synthetic rubbers, carbon black, silica, oils, resins and vulcanisation agents. The proportions and molecular structure of that mixture determine how the tyre grips, how it wears, at what temperature it works, and how it responds to load and heat.

## Pirelli's current compound line-up

- **C0:** the hardest dry compound, for the most demanding circuits;
- **C1:** hard, chosen for high-degradation Grands Prix;
- **C2:** medium-hard, the most common baseline;
- **C3:** medium, the workhorse compound;
- **C4:** soft, for street circuits and cooler races;
- **C5:** softer still, quali-focused;
- **C6:** the softest compound, introduced for selected events;
- **Intermediate (green):** for damp or drying tracks;
- **Full Wet (blue):** for standing water.

## How compounds are nominated per event

Pirelli nominates three of the C0 to C6 compounds for each Grand Prix, marked with a white band on the sidewall for hard, yellow for medium, and red for soft. Circuits with high tyre stress use harder nominations. Street circuits and cool-weather rounds use softer ones. The three nominated compounds define the possible race strategies for that weekend.

## The two-compound rule

Under standard dry conditions, the FIA requires each driver to use at least two different compounds during the race. This is what forces at least one pit stop. Wet or red-flagged races can waive the requirement. The compound choice at each pit stop is where undercut, overcut and Safety Car strategy meet chemistry.

## Frequently asked questions about tyre compounds

### What is a tyre compound in F1?

A tyre compound is the specific chemical formulation of the rubber layer on a Pirelli tyre. Its recipe determines grip, wear rate, working temperature and durability.

### How many dry compounds does Pirelli produce?

Currently seven, from C0 (hardest) to C6 (softest). Three are nominated for each Grand Prix as hard, medium and soft.

### What are the tyre sidewall colours?

White band for hard, yellow for medium, red for soft on dry tyres. Green for intermediate and blue for full wet.

### How does Pirelli choose the compounds for each race?

Based on circuit abrasion, ambient temperature and tyre-stress data collected in previous events. Softer compounds go to street circuits and cool races. Harder compounds go to Silverstone, Spa and Suzuka.

### Do drivers have to use different compounds during a race?

Yes, under standard dry conditions. The FIA requires each driver to use at least two different compounds during the race.

Last updated: 4 Jul 2026, 01:12

### Join our FREE weekly F1 Newsletter

Enter your email address & confirm your subscription

You've already signed up, Thanks!

Check your inbox now to confirm your subscription.

![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/plugins/sendpress//img/ajax-loader.gif)

### F1 News Categories

- F1 Drivers
  - [Alexander Albon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alexander-albon-news/)
  - [Arvid Lindblad News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/arvid-lindblad-news/)
  - [Carlos Sainz News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/carlos-sainz-news/)
  - [Charles Leclerc News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/charles-leclerc-news/)
  - [Esteban Ocon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/esteban-ocon-news/)
  - [Fernando Alonso News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fernando-alonso-news/)
  - [Franco Colapinto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/franco-colapinto-news/)
  - [Gabriel Bortoleto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gabriel-bortoleto-news/)
  - [George Russell News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/george-russell-news/)
  - [Isack Hadjar News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/isack-hadjar-news/)
  - [Kimi Antonelli News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-antonelli-news/)
  - [Lance Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lance-stroll-news/)
  - [Lando Norris News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lando-norris-news/)
  - [Lewis Hamilton News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lewis-hamilton-news/)
  - [Liam Lawson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/liam-lawson-news/)
  - [Max Verstappen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/max-verstappen-news/)
  - [Nico Hulkenberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-hulkenberg-news/)
  - [Oliver Bearman News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oliver-bearman-news/)
  - [Oscar Piastri News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oscar-piastri-news/)
  - [Pierre Gasly News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pierre-gasly-news/)
  - [Sergio Perez News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sergio-perez-news/)
  - [Valtteri Bottas News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/valtteri-bottas-news/)
- Paddock
  - [Alan Permane News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alan-permane/)
  - [Adrian Newey News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/adrian-newey/)
  - [Andrea Stella News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/andrea-stella-news/)
  - [Ayao Komatsu News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ayao-komatsu-news/)
  - [Bernie Ecclestone News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ecclestone-news/)
  - [Flavio Briatore News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/flavio-briatore/)
  - [Frederic Vasseur News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/frederic-vasseur-news/)
  - [Graeme Lowdon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/graeme-lowdon-news/)
  - [Günther Steiner News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gunther-steiner-news/)
  - [Helmut Marko News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/helmut-marko-news/)
  - [James Vowles News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/james-vowles-news/)
  - [Laurent Mekies News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/laurent-mekies-news/)
  - [Lawrence Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lawrence-stroll-news/)
  - [Mattia Binotto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mattia-binotto-news/)
  - [Pirelli F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pirelli-f1-news/)
  - [Toto Wolff News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/toto-wolff/)
  - [Zak Brown News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/zak-brown-news/)
- Topic
  - [F1 Crash](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-crash/)
  - [F1 Death](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-death/)
  - [F1 Penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-penalty/)
  - [F1 Development](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-development/)
  - [F1 Engine](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-engine/)
  - [F1 Fun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-fun/)
  - [F1 Future](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-future/)
  - [F1 Gossip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-gossip/)
  - [F1 History](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-history/)
  - [F1 injury](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-injury/)
  - [F1 Lawsuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-lawsuit/)
  - [F1 Money](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-money/)
  - [F1 Regulations](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-regulations/)
  - [F1 Rumours](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-rumours/)
  - [F1 Silly Season](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/silly-season/)
  - [F1 Sponsor](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-sponsor/)
  - [F1 Technical](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-technical/)
  - [F1 Testing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-testing/)
  - [FIA News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fia/)
- F1 Teams
  - [Alpine F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alpine-f1-team-news/ "Alpine F1 Team Updates")
  - [Aston Martin F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/aston-martin-f1-news/ "Aston Martin F1 Team Updates")
  - [Audi F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/audi-f1-news/)
  - [Cadillac F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/cadillac-f1-news/)
  - [Ferrari F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ferrari-f1-news/ "Scuderia Ferrari Updates")
  - [Haas F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/haas-f1-news/ "Haas F1 Team Updates")
  - [McLaren News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mclaren-news/ "Mclaren F1 Team Updates")
  - [Mercedes F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mercedes-f1-news/ "Mercedes F1 Team Updates")
  - [Red Bull Racing News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/red-bull-racing-news/ "Red Bull Racing F1 Team Updates")
  - [Racing Bulls News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/visa-cash-app-racing-bulls-news/)
  - [Williams News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/williams-news/ "Williams F1 Team Updates")
- Ex-F1 Drivers
  - [Antonio Giovinazzi News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/antonio-giovinazzi-news/)
  - [Daniel Ricciardo News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/daniel-ricciardo-news/)
  - [Jack Doohan News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/jack-doohan-news/)
  - [Kevin Magnussen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kevin-magnussen-news/)
  - [Kimi Raikkonen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-raikkonen-news/)
  - [Logan Sargeant News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/logan-sargeant-news/)
  - [Marcus Ericsson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/marcus-ericsson-news/)
  - [Michael Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/michael-schumacher-news/)
  - [Mick Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mick-schumacher-news/)
  - [Nico Rosberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-rosberg-news/)
  - [Romain Grosjean News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/romain-grosjean-news/)
  - [Sebastian Vettel News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sebastian-vettel-news/)
  - [Yuki Tsunoda News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/yuki-tsunoda-news/)

### This Weeks Top 3 Trending F1 Topics

- [![Verstappen Slams Ex-Drivers After Damon Hill's 2026 U-Turn](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/359050-featured-150x150.jpg)Verstappen Slams Ex-Drivers After Damon Hill's 202...2 comments | posted 6 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/verstappen-slams-ex-drivers-after-damon-hills-2026-u-turn/)
- [![FIA Statement on F1 Title outcome and reactions](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/359107-featured-150x150.jpg)Horner Reveals Hamilton's Secret Talks Over Red Bu...2 comments | posted 5 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/horner-reveals-hamiltons-secret-talks-over-red-bull-move/)
- [![Perez hints retirement could come soon](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/359108-featured-150x150.jpg)Perez hints retirement could come soon1 comment | posted 5 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/perez-hints-retirement-could-come-soon/)

### Get Your Tickets For Next Events

- ![Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/mx.svg?v=2) 2026 Mexico F1 GP2026 Mexico F1 Grand Prix30 Oct–1 Nov Mexico CityAutodromo Hermanos Rodriguez In 6 days [Tickets from €483 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Mexico)
- ![Autodromo Interlagos](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/br.svg?v=2) 2026 Brazilian F1 GP2026 Brazilian F1 Grand Prix6–8 Nov Sao PauloAutodromo Interlagos In 13 days [Tickets from €686 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Brazil)
- ![Lusail International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/qa.svg?v=2) 2026 Qatar F1 GP2026 Qatar F1 Grand Prix27–29 Nov DohaLusail International Circuit In 34 days [Tickets from €237 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Qatar)

[All F1 Tickets →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/)

### LAST 3 F1 Fan COMMENTS

- ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/9b6cbbe072368790b9780f0dbca38f0c.jpg?ver=1792602460) [Shroppyfly](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/shroppyfly/) on [Race Report & Results 2026 United States F1 Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/race-report-results-2026-united-states-f1-grand-prix/#comment-432474)7 hours ago
- ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Senna.jpg) [Nobodysperfect](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/nobodysperfect/) on [Race Report & Results 2026 United States F1 Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/race-report-results-2026-united-states-f1-grand-prix/#comment-432473)7 hours ago
- ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/502d29f8cbb897956d66858c8db3a5e6.jpg?ver=1792591942) [Jere Jyrälä](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/jere-jyrala/) on [Race Report & Results 2026 United States F1 Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/race-report-results-2026-united-states-f1-grand-prix/#comment-432472)7 hours ago

[All F1 Fan Comments](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-comments-on-f1-fansite-com/)

### Latest F1 Quiz

[![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/us_gp_2025_flashback_hero-330x186.jpg)2025 United States GP: The Flashback Quiz10 questionsBe the first to play](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/2025-united-states-gp-the-flashback-quiz/)

[All F1 quizzes](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/)

### F1 Glossary Menu

- [Active Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/active-suspension/)
- [ADUO](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aduo-system/)
- [Aerodynamics](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aerodynamics/)
- [Backmarker](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/backmarker/)
- [Bargeboard](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bargeboard/)
- [Blistering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blistering/)
- [Blue flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blue-flag/)
- [Bodywork](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bodywork/)
- [Brake Balance](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/brake-balance/)
- [Camber](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/camber/)
- [CE (Control Electronics)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ce-control-electronics/)
- [Chassis](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chassis/)
- [Chicane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chicane/)
- [Clean air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/clean-air/)
- [Cockpit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/cockpit/)
- [Compound](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/compound/)
- [Debrief](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/debrief/)
- [Degradation (deg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/degradation/)
- [Diffuser](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/diffuser/)
- [Dirty air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dirty-air/)
- [Disqualified](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/disqualified/)
- [DNF](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dnf/)
- [Downforce](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/downforce/)
- [Drag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drag/)
- [Drive-through penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drive-through-penalty/)
- [DRS - Drag Reduction System](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drs-drag-reduction-system/)
- [ECU (Engine Control Unit)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ecu-engine-control-unit/)
- [ES (Energy Store)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/es-energy-store/)
- [EX (Engine Exhaust System)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ex-engine-exhaust-system/)
- [FIA (Federation Internationale de l Automobile)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fia-federation-internationale-de-lautomobile/)
- [Formation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/formation-lap/)
- [Fuel Rig](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fuel-rig/)
- [G-force](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/g-force/)
- [GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers Association)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/gdpa-grand-prix-drivers-association/)
- [Graining](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/graining/)
- [Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grand-prix/)
- [Grid](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grid/)
- [Grip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grip/)
- [Ground Effect](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ground-effect/)
- [Halo](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/halo/)
- [HANS Device in Formula 1 Racing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/hans-device-in-formula-1-racing/)
- [ICE (Internal Combustion Engine)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ice-internal-combustion-engine/)
- [IP (Intellectual Property)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ip-intellectual-property/)
- [Installation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/installation-lap/)
- [Intermediates](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/intermediates/)
- [Jump start](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/jump-start/)
- [Lock-up](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/lock-up/)
- [Marbles](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marbles/)
- [Marshal](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marshal/)
- [MGU-H](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-h-motor-generator-unit-heat/)
- [MGU-K](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-k-motor-generator-unit-kinetic/)
- [Monocoque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/monocoque/)
- [Overcut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/overcut/)
- [Oversteer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/oversteer/)
- [Out-brake](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/out-brake/)
- [Paddock](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/paddock/)
- [Parc Fermé](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/parc-ferme/)
- [Pits](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pits/)
- [Pit board](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-board/)
- [Pit crew](https://www.f1-fansite.com/pit-crew/)
- [Pit lane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-lane/)
- [Pit stop](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-stop/)
- [Pit wall](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-wall/)
- [Plank](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/the-plank-in-formula-1-cars/)
- [Podium](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/podium/)
- [Pole position](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pole-position/)
- [Power Unit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/power-unit/ "Power Unit in F1 Explained")
- [Qualifying](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/qualifying/)
- [Retirement](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/retirement/)
- [Race engineer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/race-engineer/)
- [Red flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/red-flag/)
- [Safety Car](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/safety-car/)
- [Scrutineering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/scrutineering/)
- [Sidepod](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/sidepod/)
- [Shakedown](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/shakedown/)
- [Slicks](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slicks/)
- [Slipstream](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slipstream/)
- [Steward](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/steward/)
- [Stop-and-go penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/stop-and-go-penalty/)
- [Straight Mode](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/straight-mode/ "Straight Mode in Formula 1 explained")
- [FIA Super Licence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/super-licence-fia/)
- [Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/suspension/)
- [Traction Control](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction-control/)
- [Tear-off](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tear-off/)
- [Telemetry](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/telemetry/)
- [Torque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/torque/)
- [Traction](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction/)
- [Turbocharger (TC)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbo-charger-tc/)
- [Turbulence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbulence/)
- [Tyre blanket](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-blanket/)
- [Tyre strategy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-strategy/)
- [Undercut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/undercut/)
- [Vortex Generator](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vortex-generator/)
- [VSC (Virtual Safety Car)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vsc-virtual-safety-car/)
- [Wheel gun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wheel-gun/)
- [Wind tunnel correlation](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wind-tunnel-correlation/)
- [Wing endplate](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wing-endplate/)
- [Yellow flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/yellow-flag/)

### Last News Update

- [![Antonelli Seizes Crucial Austin Pole as F1 Title Beckons](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/22-saturday-austin-2026-4K-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/antonelli-seizes-crucial-austin-pole-as-f1-title-beckons/) #### [Antonelli Seizes Crucial Austin Pole as F1 Title Beckons](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/antonelli-seizes-crucial-austin-pole-as-f1-title-beckons/)October 25, 2026

### Latest Column

- [![Pirelli's Friday Report from 2026 United States Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/36-friday-austin-2026-4K-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/pirellis-friday-report-from-2026-united-states-grand-prix/) #### [Pirelli's Friday Report from 2026 United States Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/pirellis-friday-report-from-2026-united-states-grand-prix/)October 24, 2026

### Latest Video Update

- [![Peter Windsor's Analysis of 2026 United States GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/31-friday-austin-2026-4K-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/peter-windsors-analysis-of-2026-united-states-gp/) #### [Peter Windsor's Analysis of 2026 United States GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/peter-windsors-analysis-of-2026-united-states-gp/)October 26, 2026

### Newest Pictures

- [![Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/32-friday-monza-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/) #### [Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/)September 4, 2026

### Last Classification

- [![Race Report \& Results 2026 United States F1 Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/m626097-UHD-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/race-report-results-2026-united-states-f1-grand-prix/) #### [Race Report & Results 2026 United States F1 Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/race-report-results-2026-united-states-f1-grand-prix/)October 25, 2026 |  3

### Newest Sound or Podcast

- [![F1 Explains: Understeer, Race Pace and More with Jack Doohan](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BWT-Alpine-Formula-One-Team-2025-Formula-One-Bahrain-Grand-Prix-Sunday-Aangepast-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-explains-understeer-race-pace-and-more-with-jack-doohan/) #### [F1 Explains: Understeer, Race Pace and More with Jack Doohan](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-explains-understeer-race-pace-and-more-with-jack-doohan/)October 23, 2026

### TOP 5 Popular F1 Drivers

- [Kimi Antonelli](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/kimi-antonelli/)
- [Michael Schumacher](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/michael-schumacher/)
- [Lewis Hamilton](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/lewis-hamilton/)
- [Alex Albon](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/alexander-albon-information-statistics/)
- [George Russell](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/george-russell-information-statistics/)

[All F1 drivers](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/)

### TOP 5 Popular F1 Teams

- [Aston Martin F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/aston-martin-f1-team-information-statistics/)
- [Ferrari F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/ferrari-f1-information-statistics/)
- [Mercedes F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/mercedes/)
- [Brabham F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/brabham-f1-information-statistics/)
- [Jordan F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/jordan-f1-information-statistics/)

[All F1 teams](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/)

### TOP 5 Popular F1 Races

- [2026 US Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/usa-grand-prix-f1-race-information/)
- [2026 Singapore Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/singapore-grand-prix-f1-race-information/)
- [2026 São Paulo Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/sao-paulo-grand-prix/)
- [2026 Japanese Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/japanese-grand-prix/)
- [French Grand Prix: F1 Race History, Winners & Results](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/french-grand-prix-f1-race-information/)

[Full F1 calendar](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/)

### TOP 5 Popular F1 Content

- [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/)
- [Login](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/)
- [F1 Driver Comparison Tool](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/f1-driver-comparison/)
- [F1 Wallpapers HD](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpapers/)
- [2026 US Grand Prix: F1 Schedule, Results & Winners](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/usa-grand-prix-f1-race-information/)

[All Time F1 content](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/)

- [Follow us on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvgDhPFOF_RoheMLEmX8xCg)
- [Follow us on X](https://twitter.com/f1fansite)
- [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/f1fansite)
- [Follow us on Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/f1fansite/)
- [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/f1fansite.com_official/)
- [Subscribe to our RSS feed](https://www.f1-fansite.com/feed/)

[About](https://www.f1-fansite.com/about-us/) [Contact](https://www.f1-fansite.com/contact/) [Editorial Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/editorial-policy/) [Advertising](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-advertising/) [Disclaimer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/disclaimer/) [Privacy Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/privacy-policy/) [Cookie Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/cookie-policy/)

© 2001-2026 F1-Fansite.com. All rights reserved.  
 Powered by [ProTrix](https://protrix.nl). Not affiliated with Formula 1 or the FIA.

Scroll to top

×

![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png) **Add F1-Fansite to your home screen** One tap and it’s on your home screen, like an app.

Add

1. 1 Tap  at the bottom of your screen
2. 2 Then pick  “Add to Home Screen”

<details><summary>Share</summary>

<a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Compound&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.f1-fansite.com%2Fglossary%2Fcompound%2F">X</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.f1-fansite.com%2Fglossary%2Fcompound%2F">Facebook</a> <a href="https://api.whatsapp.com/send?text=Compound%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.f1-fansite.com%2Fglossary%2Fcompound%2F">WhatsApp</a> <a href="https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.f1-fansite.com%2Fglossary%2Fcompound%2F&amp;title=Compound">Reddit</a> Copy link

</details>

```json
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/compound/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/","name":"Glossary"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"3","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/compound/","name":"Compound"}}]}]}
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What is a tyre compound in F1?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A tyre compound is the specific chemical formulation of the rubber layer on a Pirelli tyre. Its recipe determines grip, wear rate, working temperature and durability."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How many dry compounds does Pirelli produce?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Currently seven, from C0 (hardest) to C6 (softest). Three are nominated for each Grand Prix as hard, medium and soft."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the tyre sidewall colours?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"White band for hard, yellow for medium, red for soft on dry tyres. Green for intermediate and blue for full wet."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How does Pirelli choose the compounds for each race?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Based on circuit abrasion, ambient temperature and tyre-stress data. Softer compounds go to street circuits, harder ones to Silverstone, Spa and Suzuka."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do drivers have to use different compounds during a race?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, under standard dry conditions. The FIA requires each driver to use at least two different compounds during the race."}}]}
```
