Hamilton back in action with new boots at Imola

Mercedes has remained on site at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari after last weekend's Emilia Romagna GP as the Brackley squad takes its turn testing Pirelli's 2022 18-inch tyres.

Mercedes follows Ferrari and Alpine as the first teams to sample next year's tyres. Lewis Hamilton is driving today while Valtteri Bottas will take over the workload on Wednesday.

Just considering aesthetics, the 18-inch wheels definitely look the part. Bring on 2022!

Alpine, Red Bull and Alfa Romeo are the next teams in line to test for Pirelli, with two days of running scheduled after the Spanish GP at Barcelona on May 11-12.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.