What tyre strategy did Ferrari employ at the start of the race?

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Ferrari Employed Soft Tyre Strategy at the Start of the Hungarian Grand Prix

Ferrari opted for a gamble on soft tyres at the commencement of the Hungarian Grand Prix, a strategic decision that contrasted with the majority of the field who initiated the race on medium tyres. This choice represented a divergence from the standard approach taken by other competitors, including Red Bull and McLaren. The race began under intense heat, with air temperatures reaching 31 degrees Celsius and track temperatures soaring to 51 degrees Celsius.
Ferrari's Tyre Gamble

The decision by Ferrari to start on soft compound tyres was a notable strategic deviation. While other teams, such as Red Bull and McLaren, opted for the more conservative medium tyre, Ferrari sought to gain an initial advantage through the superior grip offered by the softer compound. This approach aimed to maximise performance in the opening laps, potentially allowing their drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, to gain track position early in the race.
Contrasting Strategies in the Field

In contrast to Ferrari's bold tyre choice, the vast majority of the grid, including the leading contenders like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, began the race on medium tyres. This was a more conventional strategy, often favoured for its balance between performance and durability over a longer stint. The differing tyre strategies created a dynamic and unpredictable element to the early stages of the Grand Prix, with teams assessing the effectiveness of their chosen compounds.
Impact on the Opening Laps

The immediate impact of Ferrari's soft tyre strategy was evident in the opening lap. Oscar Piastri, driving for McLaren, experienced a strong start and managed to pass Charles Leclerc. Although Lando Norris went wide, Piastri seized the lead while Lewis Hamilton advanced to fourth, overtaking Leclerc. This early phase highlighted the potential benefits of the soft tyres in terms of immediate acceleration and grip off the line, though the long-term viability of the strategy remained to be seen amidst the varying conditions and competitor strategies.

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What tyre strategy did Ferrari employ at the start of the race?

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