“Doesn’t make sense” for F1 to permanently mandate pitstops

Pirelli identified microscope failures in the tyre sidewall at the Losail International Circuit last weekend, a problem triggered by drivers running protractedly over new kerbs with a 50mm raised edge.

As a result, the tyre manufacturer and the FIA imposed a maximum stint length of 18 laps for the 57-lap grand prix, which compelled drivers to run a three-stop strategy.

However, this was met with criticism that it was too prescriptive and led to…