Bridgestone noticing different patterns in Melbourne

"We have seen many different tire wear characteristics, even from the same cars" explained Bridgestone's Hirohide Hamashima, Director of Motorsport Tire Development. "This highlights the many different setups being tried. The performance life of the super soft was improved today, although it was mainly used with low fuel so we would expect better performances in any case – the medium continues to look like a strong race tire."

Both compounds must be used at least once by all drivers during the race, which will surely result in an incredible differential in lap times as the Grand Prix progresses. Anybody seen starting the race with the super soft tires (identified with a green stripe) is likely to be on a short first stint, as these tires handle better with less fuel onboard.