Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsPirelli

Pirelli gets the green light for 2017 testing plan

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As expected, the F1 Commission and the Strategy Group have formerly approved Pirelli's plan to test this year tyre compounds destined for the 2017 season.

With changes and new demands imposed on tyres on the 2017 horizon, Pirelli demanded a comprehensive in-season testing plan in preparation for next year.

On Monday, the Italian manufacturer even fired a warning shot, threatening to pull out of the sport if its testing programme was not allowed.

Following a vote, the F1 Commission and the Strategy Group unanimously voted to allow Pirelli to increase the number of test days scheduled this year from 12 to 25.

Speaking to F1i on Monday, Pirelli motorsport boss Paul Hembery had been confident that common sense would prevail and terms would be agreed.

As Hembery underlined, the testing plan will involve actual cars putting 2017 compounds and concepts to the task.

"Going forward we feel we have a good solution because we can use actual cars. 25 car test days which means the actual car can be used. That then opens up the opportunity for everyone to do some testing."

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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.