Pirelli's F1 Bahrain test goes to plan

ERJ staff report (TP)

Bahrain – Pirelli said the Formula One teams have been able to complete more testing distance with its new 2014 range of tires in Bahrain, as they begin to get a better picture of how the latest tires interact with the radically different new cars.

A number of teams were able to complete race simulations, as well as qualifying and pit stop practice, assessing every aspect of tire usage. Weather conditions remained dry and warm, in the region of 20°C or higher: temperatures that are much more representative of the season as a whole.

In accordance with the nominations they had made in advance, the teams were able to try out the entire 2014 range of P Zero tires in Bahrain, as well as a special ‘winter’ hard compound, with a faster warm-up.

Paul Hembery, Pirelli motorsport director, said: “Testing data so far indicates that the 2014 tires are more consistent and durable than their predecessors. As a result, we are also seeing fewer ‘marbles’ on the circuit: one of our objectives at the start of this season.”

A total of 24 drivers took part in the Bahrain test, completing 2,322 laps and 12,566km.

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg set the fastest time of the Bahrain test, with a time of 1m33.283s on Saturday (22 February) with the P Zero Yellow soft. By way of comparison, the fastest race lap at the Bahrain Grand Prix last year was 1m36.961s, set by Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel.

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Press release from Pirelli