Pirelli wants the 2017 tests in Bahrain

Since returning to Formula 1 in 2011, Pirelli has always pushed to be able to carry out winter tests in warm places, like Bahrain or Abu Dhabi, where temperatures are quite high even after the end of the season.

In 2014 the Italian company managed to have part of the winter tests carried out in Bahrain, on the Sakhir circuit, in order to test their tires with temperatures more similar to those we would have encountered during the championship, which is difficult to do Barcelona. The Spanish circuit, however, remains a testing ground for all engineers, the ideal track for testing their cars, as it is considered the most "complete" track on which to drive, thanks to the variety of curves of different nature and straights that presents.

Paul Hembery, Pirelli motorsport director, wanted to intervene on this possibility: “From the point of view of the tire manufacturer, it would be perfect to go somewhere warm during winter testing. A few years ago we did a test in Bahrain and it gave us very clear indications from the point of view of the tire's performance."

Going for tests in these Asian countries, however, would also lead to an increase in expenses, especially for smaller teams, which are not inclined to face long trips: “I recognize that the teams think that going to test in those places is economically disadvantageous, but we are in a sport where hundreds of millions are spent” – continued Hembery -. “A test in Bahrain would be a big step forward for us.”

Gianluca D'Alessandro