P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The smaller tyres that will come into effect with the new Formula 1 regulations in 2026 have been given their first test with Aston Martin in Barcelona this week. The car, an Aston Martin mule driven by its test driver Felipe Drugovich, completed 760km on Tuesday, with further running being completed today. This is the […]
An Aston Martin mule, driven by test driver Felipe Drugovich, completed 760km on Tuesday, with additional running on Wednesday. This marks the beginning of a series of tests where F1 teams will produce mule cars for tyre testing purposes. Pirelli developed narrower front and rear tyres, with diameters changing to between 705-710mm, as part of efforts to make F1 cars lighter. The FIA rule changes aim to allow sufficient time for Pirelli to test the tyres thoroughly using the mule cars provided by the teams. Teams will work with Pirelli to select a representative downforce level for testing, ensuring fairness and competitiveness in the process. Following Aston Martin’s participation, McLaren and Alpine are scheduled to follow suit in the tyre testing regime, providing all teams with equal opportunities for evaluation and adjustment.
