Team to sample 2013 rubber in Brazil

20/11/2012

Teams will get the opportunity to sample Pirelli's 2013 tyres in Brazil as the company gives each team two sets of 'prototype' rubber for the Friday practice sessions.

"With no testing until February otherwise, this will be an extremely valuable opportunity for them to see what our new tyres are like as they finalise their 2013 cars," said Paul Hembery, Pirelli's motor sport director.

The tyres will undergo a number of changes for next year with modifications made to both their compound and construction. That will have a knock-on affect as to how teams develop their cars, Hembery suggesting it could influence aerodynamics around the rear. However he cautioned that teams shouldn't really too much in to specific compound.

"We've yet to finalise where exactly all the compounds will sit in relation to each other, which is why we are calling the tyre to be used in Brazil a 'prototype' rather than giving it a specific nomination," he explained, "but it will be very representative of our general philosophy next year.

"We're looking forward to hearing the feedback from the teams about it… so let's hope that it doesn't rain on Friday!"

It has been suggested teams with little to play for could spend the Friday sessions evaluating the 2013 rubber with a view to next season. With just twelve days of pre-season testing scheduled ahead of the first race in Australia, Friday's sessions could give teams a head start in understanding the 2013 rubber.