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The way the game works for the time being but it won't be for long! Tyre calibration is being worked on But until then this is how it is! Also keep in mind Harder the tyre more durable it is and longer you can push on it with higher push levels. But I know where you are coming from!
Is the level of thrust that is controlled in the race the same as the offside level that can be modified from the strategy menu?
On the other hand, even if you put a high thrust hard on the tyres, they heat up and lose performance.