Pirelli Details Bespoke P Zero R Tires for Mercedes-AMG’s F1 Safety Car
Pirelli released details on October 5, 2026 of a bespoke 21-inch P Zero R for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ serving as an official Formula 1 safety car. The story concerns a vehicle-specific tire specification, rather than an interchangeable tire chosen only by wheel diameter.
Development around the car
Pirelli says it worked with Mercedes-AMG using virtual models, a dual-compound tread and a dedicated tread pattern. The design was matched to the car’s suspension geometry and camber. Testing took place at the Nürburgring and Nardò with safety-car driver Bernd Mayländer involved.
The manufacturer identifies this specification with an MO1 sidewall marking. Its wet-weather control and grip statements are Pirelli’s claims; the announcement supplies no independent comparison test or Chiefs Review testing.
Why the sidewall details matter
For an owner shopping for replacements, the useful takeaway is to ask about the complete fitment. Start with the vehicle’s approved tire sizes, load and speed ratings, then check whether the replacement is the recommended homologated version. A product-family name on its own leaves those questions unanswered.
A safety-car development programme is also a specific use case. It should not be treated as proof that every tire carrying the same family name delivers identical results on a different road car. Match any comparison to the exact specification being discussed.
For another example of why configuration matters, see our 2026 Shelby Super Snake specification report.