Debate surrounds 2013 Young Driver Test

17/11/2012

Mat Coch writes:

Debate currently surrounds next year's Young Driver Test. Traditionally held in Abu Dhabi at the end of the season, this year, a lack of agreement between the teams saw it split across Silverstone, Magny-Cours and Abu Dhabi.

It is understood the teams are unhappy with the split tests since it drives up costs while offering little in the way of benefit. Teams can only run at one test, meaning that generally only a third of them were present at each.

The teams are looking to avoid a similar scenario in 2013 with discussion currently focussed on whether the test will be held at Silverstone or its 'traditional' home in Abu Dhabi.

Whatever happens, it seems the Young Driver Test will be the only chance teams will have to run their cars outside of a Grand Prix weekend once the season is underway. Pre-season testing kicks off in early February with a four-day test in Jerez starting on February 5 before back-to-back tests in Barcelona (February 19-22 and February 28 to March 3) shortly before the teams head to the opening race of the season in Australia.

There will also be no in-season testing as there was this year, the teams having been granted a full test at Mugello (above) as the Grand Prix circus returned to Europe after its opening of races. A number of teams were displeased with the choice of location and questioned Mugello's relevance in terms of the circuits raced on during the season.

2013 Pre-season Testing Schedule

February 5-8: Jerez

February 19-22: Barcelona

February 28-March 3: Barcelona