While Vettel's rivals try to stop him from extending his lead before the mid-season summer break, Pirelli hopes its much-lamented tires withstand the meltingly hot temperatures expected Sunday outside of Budapest. (Have you read about the safety clampdown in F1)
Last week, the teams held in-season testing sessions at Silverstone to assess new tires provided by Pirelli. Several spectacular blowouts on the same circuit at the British Grand Prix in June prompted a furious response and boycott threat from drivers. (Suggested read: Race heats up for Red Bull F1 seat)
The three-time defending champion Vettel says "we have asked for tires that are safe," and "it's hard to know what to expect here."
Hungarian F1 Preview: Focus on tyres, Vettel's rivals
Advertisement