Pirelli unveils wider 2017 Formula 1 tires in Monaco

Wider Pirelli tires

Pirelli has officially revealed the new tyre sizes for the 2017 Formula 1 season, unveiling them at an event in Monte Carlo ahead of third practice for the Monaco Grand Prix.

Significant changes in the technical regulations for next season will see the tires increase in size by 25%, impacting the balance and aesthetics of the cars.

The wider tires have been brought in alongside increases in downforce, to reduce lap times by around four seconds per lap.

Wider rear tire

The new front tires are currently 245mm wide, but this will increase to 305mm for 2017. The rears will grow in size from 325mm wide to 405mm. Wheel rim diameter remains 13 inches.

Recent regulation changes have meant Pirelli has already been able to conduct testing with current tires and 2012, 2013 and 2014-specification cars this season.

The test program will continue throughout the summer and the new 2017 size tires will start to be put through their paces in early August.