What a tyre engineer does
The tyre engineer is the bridge between the team and Pirelli, the exclusive tyre supplier for Formula 1. They are responsible for understanding how each compound behaves at each circuit, under each weather condition, and with each car's unique aerodynamic and mechanical characteristics.
Their work begins months before the first race, when they work with Pirelli to select the three compounds that will be used at each event. During the race weekend, they analyze tyre data from every session, providing recommendations to the race engineer and strategist about optimal tyre usage.
The most influential tyre engineers
Marco Matassa (Pirelli) is the head of F1 tyre operations at Pirelli, responsible for delivering the right compounds to the right circuits and ensuring that every set of tyres meets the sport's exacting standards.
Simon Mitchell (formerly Mercedes) was one of the most respected tyre engineers in F1, combining deep technical knowledge with strategic thinking to optimize Mercedes' tyre performance during their dominant era.
The science behind the role
A tyre engineer must understand the complex physics of tyre behavior: how rubber compounds interact with different track surfaces, how temperature affects grip and degradation, how pressure changes alter the tyre's contact patch, and how aerodynamic load influences tyre wear.
They must also understand the human element: how different drivers use their tyres differently, how driving style affects degradation, and how to communicate complex tyre data in simple terms that the driver can act on during a race.
The 2026 challenge
In the 2026 era, with lighter cars and less downforce, tyre behavior has changed significantly. The reduced aerodynamic load means that mechanical grip is more important, and the relationship between tyre pressure and performance has shifted. Tyre engineers who understand these changes fastest will have a significant advantage.