Pirelli demonstrated a prototype 18-inch tyre at Monza on Saturday with the help of Grand Prix veteran Jean Alesi.
The new wheel and tyre size will become the norm in F1 from 2021, although they will already be introduced into the FIA Formula 2 championship next year.
Pirelli is set to embark on an extensive testing program that will kick off at Paul Ricard next week with a special mule car supplied by Renault.
Alesi, whose son competes Giuliano competes in F2 with Trident, gave the new F2-spec 18-inch tyre its public debut yesterday, running a few laps at the Temple of Speed.
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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.