Bridgestone to introduce softer inter

Formula 1's control tyre supplier made the decision to produce a more grippy intermediate specification of rubber to counterbalance the loss of aerodynamic grip in wet conditions caused by the change in regulations in 2009. This follows a wet start to the season both during pre-season testing and the Malaysian and Chinese grands prix where drivers struggled for grip in intermediate conditions.

"Our new intermediate tyre compound will debut at Monaco and we will use this for the rest of the season," said Bridgestone director of motorsport tyre development Hirohide Hamashima.

"It is a softer compound and will allow more mechanical grip, however the lower downforce from the latest cars means that it is still more of a challenge driving in the wet than before."

Bridgestone has also announced the dry tyre compound allocation for the four races from the Monaco Grand Prix onwards. This includes a switch in running compounds separated by one step of hardness for the street circuit, where super soft and soft tyres will be offered.

"Our allocations for the next four races from Monaco onwards are based on the data we have collected so far this season, and the extensive knowledge we have of the race venues we visit.

"In Monaco, there is a change to our allocation philosophy due to the unique characteristics of this smooth and slippery track. This means we will bring the super soft and soft tyres, which are next to each other in terms of softness, and also both from our low temperature working range family."

Tyre allocation for the next five grands prix:
Spain: soft, hard
Monaco: super soft, soft
Turkey: soft, hard
Britain: soft, hard
Germany: super soft, medium