Here is how the Pirelli tests at the FP2 in Mexico will take place
The second free practice session in Mexico this Friday is reserved for Pirelli tests on tire prototypes that will be used next year. Here is how this special session will unfold.
As was the case in Austin last weekend (and with a failed attempt in Suzuka three weeks ago), Pirelli will take advantage of the second free practice session this Friday to test tire prototypes that will be used for the 2023 season. The FIA has revealed the precise schedule for this session, which starts at 11 p.m. tonight.
It will all depend on whether a team chooses to field both their “regular” drivers or give a chance to a rookie during the first free practice session, as is the case with Haas and Pietro Fittipaldi or with Williams and Logan Sargeant, for example.
In the case of a regular driver during the FP1 sessions
If a team uses its regular drivers during FP1, as is usually the case, the entire FP2 session – which lasts exceptionally 1 hour and 30 minutes – is dedicated to Pirelli tests. The drivers will only be able to use next year’s prototypes, according to Pirelli’s testing schedule. Unlike the “regular” tires, the prototypes do not have colored bands on the side.
During the entire session, the car will have to remain in a fixed specification, specified by Pirelli. Teams will not be allowed to make any changes regarding the car’s settings. Practice starts are prohibited during this session, as well as the use of the DRS. Pit stops are still permitted.
In the case of a rookie during FP1
Here, the FIA refers to Article 32.4) c) of the Sporting Regulations for 2022. If it’s a young driver outside of Formula 1 who is driving the car during FP1, the team can allocate up to a maximum of 45 minutes of FP2 for a normal practice session. However, they are still required to follow a specific Pirelli tire test plan, even for those “free” 45 minutes.
For these first 45 minutes, therefore, all the dry tyres allocated by Pirelli for Mexico can be used. The car must remain in a fixed specification, but practice starts are allowed, as well as the use of DRS, changes in setup, and pit stops.
The remaining 45 minutes will be dedicated to the use of the Pirelli prototypes. The same specific driving plan as the regular drivers during FP1 (as explained above) will be followed, which includes the prohibition of practice starts, the use of DRS, and configuration changes. Pit stops are still allowed.
