Formula 1 tyre supplier Pirelli has demonstrated its 18-inch wheels ahead of their impending introduction in the sport’s main two championships.
Pirelli will switch to using 18-inch wheels in Formula 1 as part of the regulatory overhaul in 2021, with official testing set to commence with Renault next week.
Ahead of Formula 1’s switch, Formula 2 will use 18-inch tyres in 2020, with extensive testing having already taken place privately.
On Saturday at Monza F1 legend Jean Alesi completed a demonstration lap in the Formula 2 car, using 2020-spec tyres.
“The eye-catching demonstration run with the new 18-inch tyres at Monza, courtesy of a legendary driver who will always be associated with this track, provided a fascinating glimpse of a future that will be with us before we know it,” said Pirelli boss Mario Isola.
“The links between Formula 2 and Formula 1 have never been closer, symbolised by this latest demonstration and display at our home circuit.
“Now we look forward to track testing some 18-inch Formula 1 prototypes for the first time next week in France.”
Pirelli is set to carry out extensive 18-inch tyre testing through the rest of 2019 and 2020, using its 25 allocate days per year to undertake the running.
