Analysis of Pirelli rubber after the opening day of action at the Losail circuit has revealed that there was evidence of a sidewall separation between the topping compound and the carcass cords.
A statement issued by the FIA suggested that this problem could lead to air loss if the tyres were used too much.
Initial indications pointed to the problem having been triggered by a new design of kerbs built in Qatar for this weekend's event.
"This issue has likely been caused by the high-frequency interference between the tyre sidewall and the 50mm 'pyramid' kerbs used extensively at this circuit, aggravated by the propensity to ride those kerbs," explained the governing body.
The issue is enough of a worry for the FIA to prompt an emergency reshuffle of its timetable for Saturday – with an extra practice session now slotted in to evaluate the situation.
In its statement, the FIA said that a host of measures were being taken to avert the possibility of problems in the race.
It explained that track limits at Turns 12-13 would be revised and that an extra 10-minute familiarisation session would take place at 4pm on Saturday – shifting back the start of start of sprint shootout qualifying - to allow drivers to get used to the new policing.
Source: Autosport