FIA opens the door for Formula One tire tests

ERJ staff report (BC)

London – Formula One's governing body will allow in-season testing in a bid to address safety fears following several exploding tires at the British Grand Prix, Associated Press (AP) has reported.

Jean Todt, the International Automobile Federation president, is reported to have said in a statement on 1 July that the young drivers’ test scheduled for 17-19 July at Silverstone would be open to all F1 drivers, although Mercedes would be excluded after it was reprimanded for holding unsanctioned tire tests in May.

AP quotes Todt as having said that the unprecedented move – in-season testing was banned over cost concerns – follows Sunday's race where tires exploded on four cars including Lewis Hamilton's and Felipe Massa's. Todt said the incidents "represent a genuine safety concern for the drivers."

Todt also called on tire supplier Pirelli to investigate the problem.