Pirelli and other Formula 1 tidbits.

As we had anticipated, Pirelli will be the F1 tire supplier for the next three seasons. Some last minute strong arming about the contract details likely tied to on track signage but all the teams were clamoring for closure so the could get on with the business of designing next year's cars so the deal is finally done.

It will be interesting to see if the additional test days requested by FOTA will be granted. There is a rumor Pirelli purchased the famous "unused" 2010 Toyota F1 car for testing but it would seem like a reasonable request by the teams given the importance of tires in aerodynamics and suspension setup.
For Pirelli this will be more of a branding exercise because it is not clear they will be free to build the best tire their technology would allow, but will have to come up with tires that conform with the "entertainment" wishes of the governing body. Still, a coup the historically media savvy Milanese company will no doubt capitalize upon. Expect a Formula 1 themed Pirelli Calendar next year?

Incidentally Pirelli also produces a small lines of high end sports wear and, to be ready for next year, I purchased a couple of pairs of Pirelli kicks/driving shoes. Now, Pirelli, about those P-Zero Trofeo track tires being available in the US and not just in 18"plus sizes....can we talk?



Couple of other F1 tidbits. As expected, the FIA clamped down after Mclaren's "clever" move during qualifying in Montreal. The team purposely sent Hamilton out without enough fuel to make it back to the pits with a legal car and asked that Lewis strand the Mclaren on the circuit after his pole lap.

Movable rear wings have been confirmed but with incredibly complicated systems and conditions: Onboard computers will allow the wing to move, not at all in the first two laps and later only if the overtaking driver is within one second of the guy in front and then only on designated parts of the track! Lame. Lame. Lame.

Finally the return of the 107% rule, which will be surely bent in favour of commercial contracts stating the minimum amount of cars to take the start.