Pirelli’s push towards the 2026 technical regulation change took a major step forward in Abu Dhabi, where all ten teams completed an intensive test programme on the narrower tyres that will form part of next year’s rules. The session followed the season-ending grand prix and featured a blend of race drivers and young talents.

The new tyres reduce tread width at both ends and sit on the same 18-inch rims, reflecting F1’s shift to lighter cars with revised aerodynamic profiles. Pirelli also confirmed a simplified five-compound slick range for next season after deciding to drop its experimental C6 option.

Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli emerged as the quickest among the 2026 race drivers, while Aston Martin’s Jak Crawford topped the overall times during the combined young driver and tyre running. Newly crowned world champion Lando Norris also returned to complete a structured day on McLaren’s mule car as part of the tyre development data set.

Lap times were not representative, with teams running different fuel loads and test priorities, though Pirelli noted that the large combined mileage achieved across the field will inform the final homologation of the 2026 compounds.

The test marks the final stage of on-track development before Pirelli signs off its tyres for next season. The completed range will first appear on the new-generation cars at pre-season testing early in the new year.