Russell says F1 tyres feel like ‘big balloons’ under Straight Mode pressure rule

George Russell has raised an unusual but pointed concern about Formula 1’s current tyre-pressure rules, saying the cars can feel as though they are running on ‘big balloons’ because of a regulation linked to Straight Mode.

Russell highlights tyre-pressure concern

That system has created a specific safeguard in the regulations. Because an SM failure would leave the car in corner mode on the straights, increasing the stress placed on Pirelli’s tyres, teams are required to run pressures two to three psi above the minimum set by Pirelli.

‘Big balloons’ behind the wheel

Asked whether the cars have become more enjoyable to drive since pre-season testing, Russell was broadly positive about the direction of the regulations, but clear that tyre pressures remain the standout complaint among drivers.

“I think the evolution with the regulation change from Japan onwards has been very good. The cars do feel much nicer to drive,” Russell said. “I think the one issue that all of the drivers are complaining about are the tyre pressures. But from what we hear and understand, Pirelli are trying to make improvements there.”

Russell then pointed to what he described as a strange regulatory consequence of SM.

“You know, there’s a strange rule that they have to take into consideration. If a team’s SM fails and then there’s much more downforce on the car, then they need to take compensation by two or three psi for this,” he explained.

A potential step for racing

The Mercedes driver believes solving the pressure issue would not simply improve comfort; it could also have a direct impact on the quality of racing.

“But for all of us, it’s like you have big balloons you’re driving on,” Russell said. “And if they could make that step, I think it would be much better for the drivers, much better for racing, less overheating. We could fight even closer. I think that would be the next big step.”

Russell’s assessment is significant because it frames tyre pressure not as a marginal preference, but as a core factor in drivability, overheating and wheel-to-wheel racing under the current 2026 rules.