Pirelli confirms extended FP2 at Suzuka to test 2023 tyres

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F1 teams will enjoy an extra 30 minutes of track time after Friday's second practice session at Suzuka to test Pirelli's 2023-spec prototype tyres.

The extended session is part of Pirelli's 2023 development programme that has unfolded this year, during which Formula 1's exclusive tyre supplier has gathered the relevant data during testing and on race weekends to improve its product for next season.

"An innovation for this year is the fact that we will be testing some 2023 prototype tyres during an extended free practice session on Friday afternoon, as we finalise the specification for next year with the end of this season approaching," confirmed Pirelli F1 boss Mario Isola.

In Japan, the Italian manufacturer is supplying teams with its three hardest compounds – C1 to C3 – and it will the final outing of the year of the C1 hard rubber.

Like last weekend in Singapore, teams haven't raced at Suzuka since 2019, which once again elevates the challenge as each outfit approaches the circuit, weather conditions and set-up work with a blank sheet.

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"Ask the drivers which are their favourite circuits and Suzuka will always be high on the list," commented Isola.

"It contains demanding corners like nowhere else, such as 130R and Spoon, as well as a truly special atmosphere and history with incredible fans.

"There’s a roughly equal number of left and right corners in the unique figure of eight layout, which means that the circuit demands are evenly balanced.

"The sustained energy loads through the tyres are some of the highest we register all year, and the track layout means that we bring the three hardest compounds in our range because of the high levels of tyre duty.

"With the latest generation of cars being heavier than before and the limits of performance constantly being pushed, that challenge is bigger than ever now."

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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.