Formula 1: Di Resta backs Pirelli on tyre pitstops

Paul Di Resta has defended Pirelli in the wake of the flak heaped on the tyre maker following the Spanish Grand Prix.

A total of 79 pitstops unfolded during a chaotic race at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya. But Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery insisted Pirelli were doing nothing more than had been asked of them in turning grands prix into entertainment rather than processions.

Di Resta, best of the Brits for the second successive race with a seventh place for Force India, said: “It’s unpredictable for all of us. Would you want it to be back to the Bridgestone days three years ago? There obviously has to be a compromise but, overall, it benefits the midfield teams. The people who qualify at the front just want to drive away and not have any hassle.

“We tune our car to be a bit lighter on tyres, to make it better in the race because, ultimately, we know we’re not going to qualify on pole. So I’m happy.”

Di Resta also believes the overly-high degradation of the Pirelli tyres was a one-off.

“Don’t judge it too much on that race. It is probably the hardest track on tyres,” he added.