Drivers expect tough race on soft Pirelli tyres

Formula One drivers are worried Korea could this weekend host some of the worst tyre degradation of the season.

Red Bull Racing, Pirelli tyres

Photo by: xpb.cc

"We will definitely stop more than twice (in the race)," McLaren's Jenson Button is quoted by Auto Motor und Sport.

Pirelli's decision to bring its softest tyres to Korea, a rarely-used circuit whose surface was visibly dirty on Thursday and then watered by Friday morning's rain, has raised eyebrows within the paddock.

"It will be interesting to see how they work," said McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa, who recalled 2010 when even the Bridgestone tyres grained.

Added Button: "Some (drivers) may need to stop five times and then if something goes wrong, your supply of tyres runs out."

"We will see high levels of tyre degradation," Ferrari's Felipe Massa is quoted by La Repubblica. "It will be a tough race with the soft and super soft tyres, not only for us but for everyone."

Sebastian Vettel said the situation "will be worsened" further with the Friday rain. Rubens Barrichello said F1 learned last year that rain in Korea leads to mud sliding onto the track.

"All the preparation for the race may have to take place on Saturday morning," predicted McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh.