After a successful start at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit last
week, Pirelli’s newly developed 13-inch P Zero control tires
are ready to star at the next races. The remaining two GP2 Asia
rounds of the season will be held at Bahrain’s Sakhir track
Feb.17-19 and March 11-13.
As in Abu Dhabi, P Zero medium slicks will be used, powering a
full grid of 26 GP2/11 cars.
Since its opening in 2004, the Bahrain International Circuit
has played a crucial role in helping to increase the popularity
of single-seater championships in the Middle East. Aiming to
become the “home of motorsport in the Middle East,” its 5.412
km-long track presents drivers with an exceptional
challenge.
Featuring 15 turns, four straights, a change in elevation of 18
meters and a variation in width from 14 to 22 meters, the
course presents “exciting overtaking opportunities, and
closely-fought races are always on the cards,” according to
Paul Hembery, Pirelli’s motorsports director.
Sakhir’s track surface “is very grippy and highly demanding in
terms of tire performance,” he reports.
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“With sun and sand always around, there are many factors that
can affect the tires during races. The arid climate that
Bahrain enjoys all year round can also bring the track
temperature up to significant levels, meaning that the drivers
have to manage their tires properly,” Hembery points
out.
“When strong reliability and extreme grip are needed, the P
Zero medium slicks have always lived up to expectations,” he
says.
“In Bahrain the rubber is likely to undergo a wide range of
demands, including high track temperatures. Our GP2 medium
slicks have great balance in terms of durability and
performance, two factors that are vital when it comes to racing
in Bahrain,” Hembery continues. “We’re really looking forward
to the next two GP2 Asia races in Bahrain, where we aim to
repeat the excellent performance shown by the P Zero tire in
Abu Dhabi.”
For more information, visit www.us.pirelli.com.
