Raikkonen tyre failure at Silverstone not structural, says Pirelli

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Pirelli has concluded its investigation into Kimi Raikkonen's tyre failure which occured in the closing stages of the British Grand Prix.

Both Raikkonen and Ferrari team mate Sebastian Vettel were suddenly hit by failures a lap apart, but problems were unrelated according to Pirelli.

The Italian manufacturer says external damage likely caused the Finn's tyre to come apart, excluding any cause related to the tyre's structure.

Pirelli points to impacts on the belt area - possibly caused by kerbs - as the origin of the problem.

"This damage is not present throughout any other areas of the tyre whatsoever. Furthermore, the belt and the structure do not show any signs of fatigue," Pirelli said in a company release.

Pirelli offers its conclusions in Ferrari tyre failure probe

"The possible initial cause of this damage is consistent with contact against an external body, leading to a partial separation of the belt from the carcass in the two affected areas.

"In one of these two places, as a logical consequence, part of the tread also became detached.

"On no occasion was there any sign of fatigue, detachment or laceration – or even the beginning of such problems – that affected the structure of the tyre.

"In conclusion, Pirelli can confirm that no issues have emerged connected with the tyre itself."

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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.