Pirelli enrolls all F1 teams into 2018 development program

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Pirelli's 2018 development program will rely, just like last year, on the participation of all of F1's teams.

Instead of collaborating with just the sport's front-running outfits as had been the case in 2016, Pirelli brought every team into its test program last season, which helped F1's exclusive supplier develop two new compounds for the 2018 season.

The scheme will be repeated this year.

"It's very similar, we already made and agreed a plan," Pirelli F1 boss Mario Isola told ESPN.

"All the teams are willing to support us so it will be quite similar to last year, the 10 teams running one two-day dry session each.

"Plus a few teams running on wet - wet is quite particular and more difficult to organise so we have some days dedicated to intermediate and wet with different teams.

"It's done and agreed, we gave the information to all the teams and agreed with the FIA. It helps us and it helps [the teams], so it makes sense."

Pirelli's Isola wants sticky tyres and less aero grip for a better F1

Last year's development program has resulted in Pirelli offering a softer overall range of tyres in 2018 as F1's exclusive supplier departs from a conservative approach and offers more flexibility in its choices.

"We have been a bit conservative, we know this," added Isola.

"Better like this. We didn't want to take too much risk to be on the other side. We knew the changes [needed].

"This year we are going on step softer with all the compounds plus the hyper-soft that at this point is two steps softer than the ultra-soft last year.

"So it's quite a complete range of compounds and this gives us the possibility to give us a better choices, better selection for each event.

"In Montreal, for example, we are going soft, super-soft and ultra-soft -- compare to last year is super, ultra and one step softer. So we are already one step more aggressive.

"Then there is all the discussion about one-stop, two-stop, three-stop, but this is a different talk. It is going to be better for the teams and that's the most important thing."

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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.