F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Barcelona announces dates for 2017 F1 pre-season testing

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya chiefs have confirmed that the 2017 F1 pre-season testing will comprise two four-day sessions held at the Spanish Grand Prix venue.

The first Formula 1 test is scheduled from February 27 to March 2, with the second test running on March 7-10.

Given the scope of next year’s regulation changes, F1 tyre supplier Pirelli along with some teams, including triple world champions Mercedes, were keen to test under warmer conditions in Bahrain.

However, F1 teams were told last week that pre-season testing would once again be held in Barcelona, thus sticking to the original plan. The circuit organisers have now released a statement to confirm that the Montmeló venue will be the only track hosting next year’s winter tests.

Fans with three-day or Sunday-only tickets for the 2017 Spanish Grand Prix will be granted access to the eight days of running.

Next year’s pre-season testing is bound to be a highly-anticipated event, with faster and more aggressive-looking cars slated for introduction in a bid to make the show more exciting.

The season-opening Australian Grand Prix is set to take place on March 26, two weeks after the end of the second Barcelona test.

Full 2017 Formula 1 Calendar including Testing and Car Launches

The Formula 1 Driver Grid for 2017

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Julien Billiotte

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