Intermediate Tires in Formula 1 Racing

Pirelli intermediate tyres during the Hungarian GP at Hungaroring on August 01, 2019 in Hungaroring, Hungary. (Photo by Sam Bloxham / LAT Images)

Intermediate tires, also known as wet-weather tires, are a type of tire that is used in Formula 1 racing when the track conditions are wet but not completely saturated. These tires are designed to provide better grip and performance than slick tires (dry-weather tires) in wet conditions, but not as much as full wet tires.

Intermediate tires have a specific tread pattern that helps to disperse water and increase the contact patch between the tire and the track. They also have a softer compound than slick tires, which helps to generate more grip in wet conditions.

The teams use intermediate tires when the track conditions are wet but not completely saturated, as they provide better grip and performance than slick tires. However, if the track is too wet, teams will switch to full wet tires, which provide the most grip and performance in saturated conditions.

The use of intermediate tires can be a strategic decision for teams, as the choice of tire can have a significant impact on the performance of the car. Teams must consider the weather forecast and track conditions to determine the best tire to use.

In summary, Intermediate tires, also known as wet-weather tires, are a type of tire that is used in Formula 1 racing when the track conditions are wet but not completely saturated. These tires are designed to provide better grip and performance than slick tires (dry-weather tires) in wet conditions, but not as much as full wet tires. They have a specific tread pattern that helps to disperse water and increase the contact patch between the tire and the track. The use of intermediate tires can be a strategic decision for teams, as the choice of tire can have a significant impact on the performance of the car. Teams must consider the weather forecast and track conditions to determine the best tire to use.